Last updated: May 3, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors of Santo Domingo de los Colorados, Ecuador, where the tropical climate can lead to intense sun exposure. With UV levels peaking around midday—reaching as high as 14—being aware of these measurements is essential for preventing sunburn and protecting skin health. Recognizing when UV levels are at their highest can help you plan outdoor activities responsibly, ensuring you enjoy the beautiful weather while minimizing the risk of harmful effects from the sun. In a place where sunshine is abundant, staying informed about the UV Index empowers you to make healthier choices for yourself and your family.
The UV Index throughout the day follows a striking pattern, peaking sharply during the midday hours. Starting early, at 07:00, it begins at a modest 1, slowly climbing to 2 by 08:00. As the sun rises higher, the index reaches a significant 9 by 10:00 and escalates to a glaring 14 at 12:00, marking the height of solar intensity. Interestingly, this midday zenith of 12:00 draws a slight decline by 14:00, settling at 10. From there, a gentle descent occurs, with values dropping to 6 by 15:00 and further down to 3 at 16:00. The evening hours see a return to low levels, closing out the day with 1 at 17:00 and fading to 0 by 19:00. This data highlights the critical need for sun protection during the peak hours when UV radiation is the strongest.
| Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 08:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 09:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 10:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 11:00 | 12 | extreme | 10 min |
| 12:00 | 14 | extreme | 10 min |
| 13:00 | 13 | extreme | 10 min |
| 14:00 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
| 15:00 | 6 | high | 25 min |
| 16:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 17:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 18:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 19:00 | 0 | low | 45 min |
The UV Index remains consistently high throughout the year, with extreme exposure categories dominating each month. From January to April, the UV Index peaks at 16 in March, signaling high-risk months where individuals should be particularly cautious, as the burn time is as short as 10 minutes across these months. While the UV Index slightly declines in the summer months of June to August, the values remain at 12, indicating ongoing risk. September through November sees slight fluctuations, but the index hovers around 12 to 14, maintaining an extreme rating. With such high levels of UV exposure year-round, it is essential for both visitors and residents to practice sun safety by wearing protective clothing, applying broad-spectrum sunscreen, and seeking shade during peak sunlight hours to reduce the risk of skin damage.
UV Risk Categories
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Guayaquil UVI | 14 | 14 | 15 | 14 | 12 | 11 | 10 | 11 | 13 | 13 | 11 | 12 |
| Machala UVI | 14 | 14 | 15 | 14 | 12 | 10 | 10 | 11 | 13 | 13 | 12 | 12 |
| Santo Domingo de los Colorados | 14 | 15 | 16 | 15 | 14 | 12 | 12 | 12 | 13 | 14 | 12 | 11 |
| Cuenca UVI | 16 | 17 | 18 | 18 | 16 | 13 | 14 | 14 | 17 | 16 | 15 | 15 |
| Quito UVI | 17 | 17 | 19 | 19 | 17 | 14 | 15 | 15 | 17 | 17 | 16 | 14 |