UV Index in El Cacao, Panama

Last updated: July 2, 2025

Living in El Cacao, Panama, means enjoying the beauty of a tropical climate, but it also comes with a unique responsibility: being aware of the UV Index. Understanding UV levels is crucial for safeguarding your skin from sunburn and long-term damage. In this lush region, UV exposure can reach critical levels, peaking between 10 AM and 2 PM, when the index soars to a maximum of 13—extremely high for an outdoor adventure. By staying informed about the UV Index, you can take proactive measures to enjoy the sun safely and protect your skin health. Remember, a little knowledge goes a long way in ensuring your time under the Panamanian sun is both fun and safe!

Hourly UV Index in El Cacao

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 El Cacao

The UV Index shows significant seasonal fluctuations, remaining consistently high throughout the year. January to May sees particularly elevated values, peaking at 15 in April and May, indicating an extreme exposure category with a burn time of just 10 minutes. The months of March through September are particularly high-risk, with April and May being the most intense. Even during the latter half of the year, from October to December, UV levels remain concerning, ranging from 11 to 13. Visitors and residents should take precautionary measures during these high-risk months, including using sunscreen, wearing protective clothing, and limiting sun exposure during peak hours to minimize the risk of sunburn and skin damage.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for El Cacao, Panama

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

The table above highlights how UV exposure in El Cacao 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.

El Cacao'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
El Cacao	12	13	14	15	15	13	13	14	14	13	12	11
David UVI	12	13	14	15	14	13	14	13	14	14	12	11