UV Index in Santa Maria, Panama

Last updated: June 2, 2025

Understanding the UV Index is essential for residents and visitors in Santa Maria, Panama, where vibrant sunshine and a tropical climate pose unique challenges for skin health. With UV levels often peaking at 13 during midday, awareness of these readings can help prevent painful sunburn and long-term skin damage. Santa Maria's warm conditions can lead to high UV exposure, especially between 10 AM and 2 PM, making it crucial to take necessary precautions. By keeping an eye on the UV Index, you can enjoy the beautiful outdoors while ensuring your skin stays healthy and protected.

Hourly UV Index in Santa Maria

As the day unfolds, the UV Index rises steadily, reaching its peak between 12:00 PM and 1:00 PM with a remarkable index of 13. The sun's intensity starts to build from 8:00 AM with a value of 2, rapidly climbing to 8 by 10:00 AM. From 11:00 AM, the heat peaks at 12, only to slightly wane to 11 by 2:00 PM. Gradually, the UV Index declines, dropping to 8 at 3:00 PM, and then diminishing further to 4 by 4:00 PM. As evening approaches, the index returns to a more manageable level, resting at 2 by 5:00 PM and finally settling at 0 after 7:00 PM. Stay protected during the midday sun, when UV levels soar!

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	13	extreme	10 min
13:00	13	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

Monthly UV Index Trends in Santa Maria

The UV Index data reveals a consistent pattern of extreme UV exposure across several months, with the most critical period occurring from January to April, where the UV Index reaches its peak at 15 in April. This indicates a high-risk for sunburn, with a burn time as brief as 10 minutes during these months. Although the UV Index slightly decreases from May to November, it remains in the 12-14 range, maintaining an extreme risk level, particularly from September to November. December sees a drop to 10, still categorized as very high, with a longer burn time of 15 minutes. Residents and visitors are strongly advised to take precautions, including wearing protective clothing, applying sunscreen regularly, and seeking shade during peak hours, especially from January through November, to minimize the risk of skin damage.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Santa Maria, Panama

The monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) represents the highest UV radiation level recorded each month in Santa Maria. 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 Santa Maria, 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 Santa Maria UV Index with Other Panama Cities

The table above highlights how UV exposure in Santa Maria 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.

Santa Maria'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
Santa Maria	12	13	14	15	14	13	13	13	14	14	12	10
David UVI	12	13	14	15	14	13	14	13	14	14	12	11