UV Index in San Jose, Panama

Last updated: June 2, 2025

Understanding the UV Index in San Jose, Panama is crucial for protecting your skin and maintaining overall health. As one of the sunniest regions in the tropics, San Jose presents unique challenges as UV levels can soar to a maximum of 13 between noon and early afternoon. Being aware of these levels helps residents and visitors alike prevent sunburn and reduce the risk of long-term skin damage. With a warm tropical climate, knowing when to seek shade or apply sunscreen is essential for enjoying the beautiful outdoors while staying safe from harmful UV radiation.

Hourly UV Index in San Jose

As the sun climbs higher, the UV Index reaches its peak intensity around 12:00 PM, soaring to a striking 13—a clear signal for outdoor enthusiasts to take precautions. The morning hours start gently, with a low of 1 at 07:00 AM, gradually escalating to 6 by 09:00 AM and hitting 9 at 10:00 AM. By 11:00 AM, the sun begins to assert itself with a 12. However, as the afternoon progresses, the UV intensity starts to wane, dropping to 10 at 2:00 PM, and tapering off to a mere 2 by 5:00 PM. As daylight diminishes, the UV Index dwindles to 0 by 7:00 PM, inviting a much-needed respite from the sun’s relentless rays. Always be vigilant and protect your skin during those peak hours!

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	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	2	low	45 min
18:00	1	low	45 min
19:00	0	low	45 min

Monthly UV Index Trends in San Jose

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 San Jose, Panama

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

The table above highlights how UV exposure in San Jose 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.

San Jose'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
San Jose	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