UV Index in Portobelillo, Panama

Last updated: July 2, 2025

In Portobelillo, Panama, understanding the UV Index is essential for safeguarding your skin against the intense sun exposure that characterizes this tropical region. With daily UV levels often peaking at 13 around midday, awareness of these figures is crucial for preventing sunburn and promoting long-term skin health. The hot and humid climate here can elevate the risk of UV-related skin damage, making it vital for residents and visitors alike to monitor UV levels throughout the day. By staying informed, you can enjoy the sunny beauty of Portobelillo while protecting yourself against the harmful effects of ultraviolet radiation.

Hourly UV Index in Portobelillo

As the sun rises, the UV Index starts modestly at 1 at 07:00, indicating minimal risk. By 09:00, it climbs to a moderate 5, encouraging outdoor enthusiasts to take precautions. The peak emerges around 12:00, hitting a noticeably high 13, and remains intense until 14:00 when it slightly dips to 11. As the afternoon wanes, the index gradually decreases; by 15:00, it falls to 7, and as evening approaches, it continues its decline to 2 at 17:00. Finally, the UV Index settles at 1 by 18:00, ultimately dipping to a safe 0 by 19:00. It's a day where midday sun protection is paramount!

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	2	low	45 min
09:00	5	moderate	30 min
10:00	8	very high	15 min
11:00	11	extreme	10 min
12:00	13	extreme	10 min
13:00	13	extreme	10 min
14:00	11	extreme	10 min
15:00	7	high	25 min
16:00	4	moderate	30 min
17:00	2	low	45 min
18:00	1	low	45 min
19:00	0	low	45 min

Monthly UV Index Trends in Portobelillo

The UV Index demonstrates significant seasonal variations, with extreme exposure levels recorded from January to April, peaking at 15 in April and May. Notably, the high-risk months are January through May, during which the potential for sunburn is high with a burn time of just 10 minutes. Although UV levels remain elevated from June to October, they stabilize at 13, maintaining an extreme designation. In contrast, November sees a slight decrease to 12, while December lowers to a very high index of 10, allowing a more extended burn time of 15 minutes. Residents and visitors should prioritize sun safety by seeking shade, wearing protective clothing, and applying sunscreen, particularly during these peak months to mitigate the risk of skin damage.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Portobelillo, Panama

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

The table above highlights how UV exposure in Portobelillo 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.

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