Last updated: June 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is essential for residents and visitors of Vista Hermosa, Panama, where tropical conditions can lead to higher levels of solar radiation. Being aware of UV levels not only helps in preventing sunburn but also plays a critical role in maintaining long-term skin health. With the region's tropical climate, residents must be particularly cautious during peak hours—from 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM, when UV Index values soar to a blistering 13. This highlights the need for effective sun protection strategies to safeguard your skin against the intense rays prevalent in this beautiful area.
At dawn, the UV Index starts off low at 1 during the early hours, gradually rising as the sun climbs. By 09:00, it reaches 5, signaling a need for some sun protection. The peak occurs at 12:00, with a high of 13, indicating that the sun's rays are at their most intense—it's crucial to stay shaded and apply sunscreen. As the afternoon progresses into 14:00, the index drops slightly to 10, still warranting caution. Then, from 15:00 onward, the UV levels begin to decrease significantly, settling at 4 by 16:00. By the time 18:00 rolls around, the UV Index returns to a safer 1, and we bid farewell to the sun's severity as it softly fades into the evening, reaching 0 by 19:00. Remember to take care during those peak hours!
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 | 10 | very high | 15 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 demonstrates significant seasonal variations, with extreme exposure levels recorded from January to April, peaking at 15 in April and May. Notably, the high-risk months are January through May, during which the potential for sunburn is high with a burn time of just 10 minutes. Although UV levels remain elevated from June to October, they stabilize at 13, maintaining an extreme designation. In contrast, November sees a slight decrease to 12, while December lowers to a very high index of 10, allowing a more extended burn time of 15 minutes. Residents and visitors should prioritize sun safety by seeking shade, wearing protective clothing, and applying sunscreen, particularly during these peak months to mitigate the risk of skin damage.
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 |
Vista Hermosa | 12 | 13 | 14 | 15 | 15 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 12 | 10 |
David UVI | 12 | 13 | 14 | 15 | 14 | 13 | 14 | 13 | 14 | 14 | 12 | 11 |