UV Index in Zapallal, Panama

Last updated: July 2, 2025

Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors in Zapallal, Panama, where the tropical climate brings intense sun exposure throughout the year. Knowing the UV levels helps in preventing sunburn and maintaining skin health, which is especially vital given the area's peak UV index often reaching up to 13 during midday. With values climbing above 10 from 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM, it's important to stay informed to minimize risks associated with high UV exposure and protect your skin while enjoying the beautiful outdoor climate of Zapallal.

Hourly UV Index in Zapallal

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!

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	1	low	45 min
18:00	1	low	45 min
19:00	0	low	45 min

Monthly UV Index Trends in Zapallal

The UV Index exhibits extreme levels throughout most of the year, with particularly high values from January to April, peaking at 15 in April and remaining above 12 until November. From May onwards, the index slightly declines but stays within the extreme range, indicating a consistent risk for skin damage from UV rays. December sees a drop to a very high level of 10, but burn times still remain short. Therefore, it is essential for both visitors and residents to take precautions, especially during the high-risk months of March to April, by seeking shade, wearing protective clothing, and applying sunscreen frequently to mitigate the risk of sunburn.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Zapallal, Panama

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

The table above highlights how UV exposure in Zapallal 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.

Zapallal'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
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
Zapallal	12	13	14	15	14	13	13	13	13	13	12	10
David UVI	12	13	14	15	14	13	14	13	14	14	12	11