UV Index in Palenque, Panama

Last updated: July 2, 2025

Understanding the UV Index in Palenque, Panama, is crucial for protecting your skin and overall health. High UV levels can lead to painful sunburns and increase the risk of skin cancer, making awareness essential for residents and visitors alike. Given Palenque's warm, tropical climate, UV exposure often reaches its peak around midday, with indices soaring to a striking 13. By staying informed about UV levels, you can take proactive measures to enjoy the sunshine safely without compromising your skin's health.

Hourly UV Index in Palenque

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!

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	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

Monthly UV Index Trends in Palenque

The UV Index exhibits extremely high levels from January through August, with the highest readings recorded in March, April, and August at an index of 14. The high-risk months for UV exposure are March, April, May, and August, where the consistent UV Index of 14 necessitates vigilant sun safety practices. Residents and visitors are strongly advised to take precautions such as wearing protective clothing, applying sunscreen, and seeking shade, especially during peak sun hours. As we move into the latter part of the year, the UV Index gradually decreases, with November and December showing levels of 11 and 10, respectively, which fall under the very high category, still warranting protective measures but with slightly extended burn times.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Palenque, Panama

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

The table above highlights how UV exposure in Palenque 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.

Palenque'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
Palenque	12	12	14	14	14	13	13	14	13	13	11	10
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