Last updated: July 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors in Sambu, Panama, where the tropical climate presents unique challenges regarding sun exposure. With UV levels often peaking throughout the day, being aware of these numbers is essential for preventing sunburn and maintaining skin health. During the hottest hours, especially between 11:00 AM and 1:00 PM, the UV Index can climb to a staggering 13, indicating extreme risk. This underscores the importance of sun protection, as unprotected exposure can lead to serious skin issues. Stay informed and safeguard your skin against the sun’s powerful rays!
As the sun rises, the UV Index begins its ascent, starting from a mild 1 at 07:00. By 08:00, it escalates to 3, signaling some caution is advised. The intensity ramps up significantly, hitting 5 at 09:00, before peaking at an impressive 13 between 12:00 and 13:00. This is the prime time to protect your skin, as the sun’s rays can be particularly fierce. A gradual decline follows, with the index dropping to 10 at 14:00 and further decreasing to 4 by 16:00. As evening approaches, the UV Index tapers back to 1 by 17:00 and settles at 0 by 19:00, making the later hours much safer. Be sure to plan your outdoor activities accordingly to enjoy the sunshine while staying protected!
| 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 | 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 |