Last updated: July 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors in Santa Catalina, Panama, where the sun shines brightly almost year-round. With high UV levels typically peaking at 12 during midday, being aware of UV risks can mean the difference between enjoying the sun responsibly and suffering from painful sunburns or long-term skin damage. With its tropical Af climate, Santa Catalina offers beautiful beaches and outdoor activities, but these also come with significant exposure to UV radiation, particularly between 10 AM and 2 PM. By staying informed about UV levels, you can protect your skin and enjoy the paradise that is Santa Catalina safely!
As the sun rises, the UV Index begins its ascent, starting at a low 1 by 07:00. By 09:00, it ramped up to 5, marking the start of a more intense sun. The intensity peaks sharply at 12:00 with a striking 14, suggesting that outdoor enthusiasts should take precautions against overexposure. As the afternoon unfolds, the index tapers off, showcasing a gradual decline to 8 by 15:00, then falling to 4 by 16:00. As the sun sets, the risk diminishes, trailing back to a safe 1 by 18:00 and finally reaching 0 by 19:00. Remember, when planning outdoor activities, midday exposure is the most critical time to stay protected!
| 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 | 12 | extreme | 10 min |
| 12:00 | 14 | extreme | 10 min |
| 13:00 | 13 | extreme | 10 min |
| 14:00 | 11 | extreme | 10 min |
| 15:00 | 8 | very high | 15 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 |
Throughout the year, the UV Index demonstrates significant seasonal variation, with extreme levels consistently observed from January to November. The months of February to April see the highest UV Index readings, peaking at 15 in April, indicating that these are the most critical months for UV exposure. January through March are also noteworthy, as they maintain a constantly high UV Index of 12 to 14, highlighting the need for vigilance during these early months as well. The sun remains powerful into the fall, particularly in September and October, where the UV Index remains at 14. In contrast, December features a slightly lower UV Index of 10, categorized as very high with a burn time of 15 minutes. Visitors and residents are strongly advised to take precautions during high-risk months by using sunscreen, wearing protective clothing, and minimizing sun exposure during peak hours. Always stay informed about the UV Index and adjust outdoor activities accordingly to ensure safety.
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 |
| Santa Catalina | 12 | 13 | 14 | 15 | 14 | 13 | 14 | 13 | 14 | 14 | 12 | 10 |
| David UVI | 12 | 13 | 14 | 15 | 14 | 13 | 14 | 13 | 14 | 14 | 12 | 11 |