UV Index in San Jose, Panama

Last updated: May 3, 2025

In San Jose, Panama, being aware of the UV Index is crucial for protecting your skin and overall health. Understanding UV levels helps residents and visitors alike to prevent sunburn and reduce the risk of skin damage. With a warm tropical climate that enjoys high UV exposure, particularly around midday when levels can soar to a staggering 15 between 12:00 PM and 1:00 PM, it's essential to stay informed. Whether you're lounging outdoors or engaging in various activities, knowing how to protect yourself from the sun can make all the difference in enjoying the beautiful weather while keeping your skin safe.

Hourly UV Index in San Jose

The UV Index rises sharply as the day progresses, starting from a mild level of 1 at 07:00. By 09:00, it hits a moderate 6, but the sun truly peaks around 12:00 with a maximum of 15. This is when sun protection is crucial, as the UV Index later dips to 11 by 14:00, before gradually declining to a soft 1 by 17:00. As the sun sets and daylight fades, the Index drops to 0 by 19:00, signaling a safe end to outdoor activities. Prioritize sun safety 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	10	very high	15 min
11:00	13	extreme	10 min
12:00	15	extreme	10 min
13:00	14	extreme	10 min
14:00	11	extreme	10 min
15:00	8	very high	15 min
16:00	4	moderate	30 min
17:00	1	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 shows a high level of risk throughout the year, particularly from January to April, where it consistently reaches extremes of 12 to 15, with a very short burn time of just 10 minutes. While May also maintains a UV Index of 15, it slightly decreases from June to August, settling at 13, although still classified as extreme. September and October see a slight uptick to 14, emphasizing that the high-risk months remain prevalent through the fall. Visitors and residents should take extra precautions during these months by wearing protective clothing, utilizing broad-spectrum sunscreen, and limiting sun exposure, particularly during midday. In contrast, December offers a brief respite with a lower UV Index of 10, allowing for a slightly extended burn time of 15 minutes, but caution is still advisable. Overall, vigilance is key in safeguarding against UV radiation year-round.

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