Last updated: July 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors in Achutupo, Panama, where the tropical climate brings intense sunlight throughout the year. Awareness of UV levels is essential not only for preventing sunburns but also for protecting overall skin health. With midday UV Index values frequently soaring as high as 13, the risk of overexposure increases significantly. Given Achutupo's enduring warmth and bright sun, knowing when to seek shade or wear protective clothing can make all the difference in enjoying the beautiful outdoors while safeguarding your skin.
The UV Index for the day follows a distinct pattern, peaking dramatically around noon. Starting at a modest 1 at 07:00, it climbs to 3 by 08:00, then surges to 6 at 09:00. As the sun reaches its zenith, the UV Index hits 12 at 11:00, culminating in a stifling 13 by 12:00 and again at 13:00. After this high point, it gradually dips to 10 at 14:00, before descending further to 7 at 15:00 and tapering off to 4 by 16:00. As the day winds down, the UV Index falls to 1 by 17:00, and finally drops to a negligible 0 by 19:00, marking the end of peak UV exposure. Remember to stay protected during those midday 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 | 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 consistently remains extreme from January through November, with high risk extending through the summer months. The peak UV values occur in March (14) and April (15), signaling increased caution during these times. Although December's UV Index drops slightly to 10, it still warrants vigilance, as the burn time increases to 15 minutes. Visitors and residents should prioritize sun protection measures such as wearing broad-spectrum sunscreen, protective clothing, and wide-brimmed hats, particularly from March to November when exposure times are significantly shortened to just 10 minutes during the most intense months. Staying mindful of the UV Index is essential to reduce skin damage and maintain health while enjoying outdoor activities.
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 |
Achutupo | 12 | 12 | 14 | 15 | 14 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 11 | 10 |
David UVI | 12 | 13 | 14 | 15 | 14 | 13 | 14 | 13 | 14 | 14 | 12 | 11 |