UV Index in San Cristobal, Panama

Last updated: July 2, 2025

Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors in San Cristobal, Panama, where the tropical climate brings intense sun exposure throughout the year. Awareness of UV levels is essential not just for preventing painful sunburns but also for maintaining long-term skin health. With UV Index values soaring to a maximum of 14 during the peak hours of noon, it’s vital for everyone to take precautions against harmful rays. Whether lounging on the beach or exploring the stunning surroundings, knowing the UV Index can help you enjoy the sunshine safely and protect your skin from its damaging effects.

Hourly UV Index in San Cristobal

The UV Index for the day reveals a dynamic pattern of solar intensity. Early in the morning, the index gradually rises from a modest 1 at 07:00 to reach a notable 5 by 09:00. As the sun climbs higher, peak intensity hits an impressive 14 by noon and remains steady until 13:00. From there, a noticeable decline begins, with readings dropping to 12 at 14:00 and gradually tapering off to a low of 0 by 19:00. This data highlights the importance of sun protection during the midday hours when UV levels are at their highest, making it crucial for outdoor enthusiasts to stay informed and take precautions.

Average solar exposure data for the current time of the year. Actual values may vary and depend on many factors, such as cloud cover, vegetation cover, surface type, etc.
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	8	very high	15 min
11:00	12	extreme	10 min
12:00	14	extreme	10 min
13:00	14	extreme	10 min
14:00	12	extreme	10 min
15:00	8	very high	15 min
16:00	5	moderate	30 min
17:00	2	low	45 min
18:00	1	low	45 min
19:00	0	low	45 min

Monthly UV Index Trends in San Cristobal

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.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for San Cristobal, Panama

The monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) represents the highest UV radiation level recorded each month in San Cristobal. It measures the strength of ultraviolet radiation from the sun and helps assess the risk of sunburn and UV-related health issues.

Data source: Statistical UV Index data for San Cristobal, based on information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

UV Risk Categories

Extreme (11+): Avoid the sun, stay in shade.
Very High (8-10): Limit sun exposure.
High (6-7): Use SPF 30+ and protective clothing.
Moderate (3-5): Midday shade recommended.
Low (0-2): No protection needed.

Compare San Cristobal UV Index with Other Panama Cities

The table above highlights how UV exposure in San Cristobal compares to other major locations across Panama. This comparison helps travelers and residents better understand regional sun intensity and plan outdoor activities with sun safety in mind.

San Cristobal's solar exposure compared to other cities in Panama. Generated using Copernicus Atmosphere Monitoring Service information.
	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
San Cristobal	12	13	15	15	14	14	14	13	14	14	12	10