Last updated: June 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors in Achutupo, Panama, where the tropical climate exposes us to varying levels of ultraviolet radiation throughout the day. With peak UV levels reaching a high of 13 around noon, being aware of these numbers can significantly impact your skin health and help prevent painful sunburns. Achutupo's warm, sunny conditions make it easy to overlook these risks, but being informed can safeguard your long-term wellbeing while enjoying the beautiful outdoors. Stay vigilant and prioritize your skin’s protection during those peak hours!
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 |
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 |