Last updated: May 3, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors in Punta Pena, Panama, where the tropical climate brings intense sun exposure year-round. Knowledge of UV levels not only helps in preventing sunburn but also plays a vital role in maintaining overall skin health. With UV Index readings peaking at 14 during midday hours, it's essential to be aware of the risks associated with high UV exposure, ensuring you take the necessary precautions to protect your skin while enjoying the beautiful Panamanian sunshine.
This hour-by-hour breakdown of the UV Index reveals a dynamic pattern of sun exposure throughout the day. Starting at 07:00 with a gentle 1, the intensity steadily increases, peaking at 12:00 when it reaches a striking 14—the highest point of the day, ideal for those seeking a sun-kissed glow. The index then begins to decline, with 11:00 hitting a close 12 before tapering off to more manageable levels by 16:00 at 4. As the sun sets, the UV Index drops to a mere 0 by 19:00, highlighting the importance of sun protection during peak hours, particularly between 10:00 and 14:00, when UV levels are most intense. Stay safe and enjoy the sun wisely!
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 | 14 | extreme | 10 min |
14:00 | 11 | extreme | 10 min |
15:00 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
16:00 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
17:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
18:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
19:00 | 0 | low | 45 min |
The UV Index exhibits significant seasonal changes, remaining consistently high throughout the year, with particularly intense periods from January to April, where values peak at 15. The highest risk months are March and April, when the UV Index reaches its maximum of 15, categorized as extreme with a burn time of just 10 minutes. Visitors and residents should take precautionary measures, such as wearing protective clothing and applying sunscreen with high SPF, especially during these months. While the UV Index remains extreme from January through October, it decreases slightly in November and drops to 10 in December, indicating only a very high risk with a longer burn time of 15 minutes. Year-round vigilance against UV exposure is essential for skin health.
UV Risk Categories
Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Arraijan UVI | 12 | 13 | 14 | 15 | 14 | 13 | 14 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 11 | 10 |
Juan Diaz UVI | 12 | 13 | 14 | 15 | 14 | 13 | 14 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 11 | 10 |
San Miguelito UVI | 12 | 13 | 14 | 15 | 14 | 13 | 14 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 11 | 10 |
Panama UVI | 12 | 13 | 14 | 15 | 14 | 13 | 14 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 11 | 10 |
David UVI | 12 | 13 | 14 | 15 | 14 | 13 | 14 | 13 | 14 | 14 | 12 | 11 |
Punta Pena | 12 | 13 | 15 | 15 | 14 | 14 | 14 | 13 | 14 | 14 | 12 | 10 |