Last updated: June 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index in Sambu, Panama is crucial for everyone, as it plays a significant role in protecting skin health and preventing sunburn. With a tropical climate that often sees elevated UV levels, knowing when the sun's rays are most intense can help you take the necessary precautions. During the peak sun hours—especially between 10:00 AM and 2:00 PM, when the UV Index can reach levels as high as 14—it's essential to seek shade, wear protective clothing, and apply sunscreen. By staying informed about UV exposure risks, you can enjoy the vibrant outdoor lifestyle of Sambu while safeguarding your skin against the potential harm of overexposure.
The UV Index (UVI) for the day paints a vivid picture of sun intensity, rising steadily as the hours progress. Starting at a mild 1 at 07:00, it quickly escalates to a moderate 3 by 08:00. As the sun climbs higher, the UVI reaches a significant 6 at 09:00 and hits its peak at 12:00 with a blazing 14. The intensity begins to wane after 13:00, slipping to 10 by 14:00, and gradually dropping to 7 at 15:00. As the sun starts to set, the UVI cools off, returning to a 1 at 17:00 and trailing down to 0 by 19:00. This pattern emphasizes the importance of sun safety during the prime hours when the UV exposure is the highest.
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 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
11:00 | 12 | extreme | 10 min |
12:00 | 14 | extreme | 10 min |
13:00 | 13 | extreme | 10 min |
14:00 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
15:00 | 7 | 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 |
The UV Index experiences extreme levels from January to May, with the highest recorded in March and April at 14 and 15 respectively, resulting in a burn time of just 10 minutes. Although there is a slight decrease in the UV levels from June to December, the UV Index remains high, especially from July to October at 13. Residents and visitors should be particularly cautious during the months of March, April, and May, as they represent the highest risk for sunburn. To protect your skin, it is advisable to apply sunscreen, wear protective clothing, and limit sun exposure during peak hours. In contrast, during the winter months, while the UV Index decreases, it still warrants attention, especially in December when the Index is 10. Consistent protective measures against UV exposure are essential 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 |
Sambu | 12 | 13 | 14 | 15 | 15 | 14 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 12 | 10 |
David UVI | 12 | 13 | 14 | 15 | 14 | 13 | 14 | 13 | 14 | 14 | 12 | 11 |