Last updated: June 2, 2025
In El Cope, Panama, being aware of the UV Index is essential for maintaining skin health and preventing sunburn. With the region’s tropical climate typically exposing residents and visitors to strong sunlight, understanding UV levels is crucial to protect yourself from harmful rays. From morning to afternoon, the UV Index can reach alarming heights—peaking at 13 around noon—emphasizing the need for vigilant sun safety measures. By monitoring these levels, you'll ensure enjoyable outdoor experiences while safeguarding your skin from potential damage.
As the sun rises, the UV Index starts its slow climb, peaking at 13 between noon and 1 PM, signaling extreme UV exposure. The day begins gently at 7 AM with a minimal index of 1, but by 10 AM, it reaches 9, urging sun-sensitive individuals to seek protection. The highest reading of 13 persists for two hours, making midday the most critical time for sun safety. As the afternoon rolls in, the index gradually decreases, dipping to 7 by 3 PM, and further waning into the evening with values of 4 at 4 PM, 2 at 5 PM, and falling to a comfortable 1 by 6 PM. Finally, the UV Index settles at 0 after sunset, marking the end of a sun-drenched day.
Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
---|---|---|---|
07:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
08:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
09:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
10:00 | 9 | 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 | 7 | high | 25 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 shows a high level of risk throughout the year, particularly from January to April, where it consistently reaches extremes of 12 to 15, with a very short burn time of just 10 minutes. While May also maintains a UV Index of 15, it slightly decreases from June to August, settling at 13, although still classified as extreme. September and October see a slight uptick to 14, emphasizing that the high-risk months remain prevalent through the fall. Visitors and residents should take extra precautions during these months by wearing protective clothing, utilizing broad-spectrum sunscreen, and limiting sun exposure, particularly during midday. In contrast, December offers a brief respite with a lower UV Index of 10, allowing for a slightly extended burn time of 15 minutes, but caution is still advisable. Overall, vigilance is key in safeguarding against UV radiation year-round.
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 |
El Cope | 12 | 13 | 14 | 15 | 15 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 14 | 14 | 12 | 10 |
David UVI | 12 | 13 | 14 | 15 | 14 | 13 | 14 | 13 | 14 | 14 | 12 | 11 |