UV Index in Santo Tomas, Panama

Last updated: July 2, 2025

In Santo Tomas, Panama, being aware of the UV Index is crucial for maintaining skin health and preventing painful sunburns. Understanding the UV levels throughout the day can help you take protective measures when the sun is at its strongest, particularly during the peak hours of 11 AM to 1 PM when the index can soar to a blistering 13. With a tropical climate that invites year-round outdoor activities, residents and visitors alike must remain vigilant about sun exposure risks. By staying informed about the UV Index, you can enjoy the beautiful Panamanian sun while safeguarding your skin from harmful effects.

Hourly UV Index in Santo Tomas

The UV Index throughout the day reveals a dynamic pattern that peaks dramatically around noon. Starting from 1 at 07:00, it gradually climbs to 2 by 08:00, then elevates sharply to 5 at 09:00. The sun’s strength intensifies significantly, reaching a peak of 13 by 12:00 and maintaining this intensity until 13:00. As the afternoon progresses, the UV index begins to decline, dropping to 11 at 14:00, and further down to 8 by 15:00. The evening brings a gentle descent, winding down to 1 at 18:00 and resting at 0 by 19:00. For outdoor enthusiasts, it's clear that the midday hours demand vigilance against sun exposure, while the early morning and late afternoon provide more comfortable UV conditions.

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	11	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	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 Santo Tomas

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 Santo Tomas, Panama

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

The table above highlights how UV exposure in Santo Tomas 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.

Santo Tomas'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
Santo Tomas	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