Last updated: June 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index in Boca de Cupe, Panama is essential for safeguarding your skin and overall health under the tropical sun. With peak UV levels soaring to 13 around noon, even brief exposure can lead to painful sunburns. Knowledge of UV levels not only helps in preventing sunburn but also contributes to long-term skin health, reducing the risk of skin cancer. Given Boca de Cupe's Af climate, known for its high humidity and intense sun exposure, staying informed about daily UV risks is crucial for both residents and visitors. Whether you're enjoying outdoor activities or simply soaking in the vibrant surroundings, awareness of the UV Index can help you enjoy the sun safely.
The UV Index for the day showcases a dramatic rise and fall in sunlight intensity. Starting at a minimal level of 1 at 7:00 AM, the UV Index quickly escalates, reaching a peak of 13 between 12:00 PM and 1:00 PM. This peak intensity, indicated by a level of 12 at 11:00 AM, highlights the potential for harmful effects on unprotected skin in just a short amount of time. As the afternoon progresses, the UV Index declines gradually, dropping to 10 by 2:00 PM, then further to 6 at 3:00 PM. By the evening, the UV exposure reduces significantly, falling back to 1 by 7:00 PM and eventually to 0 at 8:00 PM. It's a compelling reminder that midday sun can be intense, urging us to stay protected during those peak hours!
| Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 08:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 09:00 | 6 | high | 25 min |
| 10:00 | 10 | 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 | 6 | high | 25 min |
| 16:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 17:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 18:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 19:00 | 0 | low | 45 min |
Throughout the year, the UV Index shows extreme levels of solar radiation from January to March and into April and May, peaking at 15 before slightly decreasing during the summer months. High-risk months include March through May, where the UV Index consistently reaches 14-15, requiring heightened awareness for sun exposure. Visitors and residents are advised to take precautions during these months, such as wearing sunscreen, protective clothing, and seeking shade, especially during midday hours. As we transition into June through October, while the UV Index remains high, it slightly tapers off, with a lower risk noted in December with an Index of 10, suggesting increased attention to sun safety remains essential throughout the year.
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 |
| Boca de Cupe | 12 | 13 | 14 | 15 | 15 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 14 | 13 | 12 | 10 |
| David UVI | 12 | 13 | 14 | 15 | 14 | 13 | 14 | 13 | 14 | 14 | 12 | 11 |