UV Index in Santa Catalina, Panama

Last updated: July 2, 2025

In Santa Catalina, Panama, being aware of the UV Index is essential for protecting your skin and overall health. With sun exposure peaking during midday, understanding UV levels is crucial for preventing sunburn and long-term skin damage. Santa Catalina's tropical climate brings high UV radiation, especially between late morning and early afternoon, when the index can soar to 13—extreme risk levels. Stay informed and take proactive measures to enjoy the sun safely while appreciating the stunning beauty of this coastal paradise.

Hourly UV Index in Santa Catalina

As the sun rises, the UV Index starts at a gentle 1 by 7:00 AM, perfect for early risers enjoying the fresh morning air. By 9:00 AM, it escalates to a moderate 5, signaling it's time to think about sun protection. The peak arrives at 12:00 PM, when the index hits a scorching 13, marking the sun’s most aggressive rays. For the next hour, it remains at this intense level before gradually declining through the afternoon: 11 at 1:00 PM, 8 at 3:00 PM, and finally down to 4 by 4:00 PM. As the sun sets, the UV Index drops to a safe 1 by 6:00 PM, then to a calming 0 by 7:00 PM, inviting a warm evening to unwind. Enjoy the day, but remember to shield yourself 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	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	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

Monthly UV Index Trends in Santa Catalina

The UV Index in this region demonstrates an extreme risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure throughout most of the year, peaking at 14-15 from March to May. The highest risk months are April and May, when the UV Index reaches 15, requiring just 10 minutes of exposure for skin to start burning. Even during the summer months of June through September, the UV Index remains considerably high at 13, maintaining the extreme risk level. Residents and visitors are strongly advised to take protective measures whenever outdoors, such as wearing sunscreen, protective clothing, and hats, and seeking shade during peak sun hours. Throughout the winter months, while the UV Index remains slightly lower, vigilance is still essential as the category remains in the extreme range.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Santa Catalina, Panama

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

The table above highlights how UV exposure in Santa Catalina 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.

Santa Catalina'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
Santa Catalina	12	13	14	15	15	13	13	13	13	13	12	11
David UVI	12	13	14	15	14	13	14	13	14	14	12	11