Last updated: July 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index in Union Choco, Panama is essential for safeguarding your skin health in this tropical climate. With high UV levels peaking between late morning and early afternoon, awareness of these values can significantly reduce the risk of sunburn and long-term skin damage. From the moment the sun rises, the UV index rises sharply, reaching a maximum of 13 at noon. This knowledge empowers residents and visitors alike to take proactive measures against harmful UV exposure, ensuring enjoyable outdoor activities while prioritizing skin protection. Equip yourself with this vital information to make informed choices and protect your skin in the radiant sunlight of Union Choco.
At 07:00, the UV Index begins at a safe 1, indicating low risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure. As the sun rises higher, 08:00 sees a moderate increase to 3. However, by 09:00, the intensity escalates to 6, marking the start of increased caution. The peak UV Index occurs between 11:00 and 12:00, hitting a striking 13, prompting a strong recommendation for sun protection. Following this interval, a gradual decline begins: 13:00 and 14:00 remain elevated at 13 and 10, respectively, before descending quickly to 7 by 15:00. As the afternoon fades, the UV Index drops to 3 at 16:00 and finally winds down to 1 by 17:00, with the evening ushering in a safe 0 by 19:00. It's crucial to stay cautious during the peak hours to enjoy the sunshine safely!
| 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 | 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 | 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 |
| Union Choco | 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 |