UV Index in Huaraz, Peru

Last updated: June 2, 2025

In Huaraz, Peru, awareness of the UV Index is crucial for protecting your skin under the intense Andean sun. Understanding the UV levels helps to prevent sunburn and maintain skin health, especially considering that the region experiences high altitude and clear skies, which can amplify exposure. With peak UV levels reaching up to 13 around noon, it’s essential to stay informed and take precautions. Huaraz’s semi-arid climate means residents and visitors alike must be vigilant about sun safety for a healthy outdoor experience.

Hourly UV Index in Huaraz

As the sun rises, the UV Index begins at a low 1 at 07:00, gradually climbing to reach 2 by 08:00. The intensity ramps up significantly as the day progresses, peaking at a striking 13 at 12:00. The sun's rays hit their maximum power between 11:00 and 13:00, with a 12 at 11:00 and lingering at 13 until 12:00. After that, the UV Index starts to decline, dipping to 9 by 14:00 and further down to 5 by 15:00. As evening approaches, the index falls to 2 at 16:00, then returns to a safe 1 at 17:00 before wrapping up the day with a zero reading by 18:00. This pattern underscores the importance of sun safety during those peak hours when the UV Index is highest.

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	9	very high	15 min
11:00	12	extreme	10 min
12:00	13	extreme	10 min
13:00	12	extreme	10 min
14:00	9	very high	15 min
15:00	5	moderate	30 min
16:00	2	low	45 min
17:00	1	low	45 min
18:00	0	low	45 min
19:00	0	low	45 min

Monthly UV Index Trends in Huaraz

The UV Index remains consistently high throughout the year, categorized as extreme for all months with values ranging from 13 to 19, which significantly increases the risk of sunburn. The highest risk months are January to April, where the UV Index is a constant 19, indicating a burn time of just 10 minutes. Even during the summer months, though slightly lower, the indices in June (13) and July (14) remain hazardous. Visitors and residents are strongly advised to take precautions, such as wearing sunscreen, protective clothing, and seeking shade, especially during peak sun hours, to minimize the risk of UV exposure year-round.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Huaraz, Peru

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

The table above highlights how UV exposure in Huaraz compares to other major locations across Peru. This comparison helps travelers and residents better understand regional sun intensity and plan outdoor activities with sun safety in mind.

Huaraz's solar exposure compared to other cities in Peru. Generated using Copernicus Atmosphere Monitoring Service information.
	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Callao UVI	14	14	14	12	10	9	10	11	12	13	14	13
Lima UVI	14	14	14	12	10	9	10	11	12	13	14	13
Trujillo UVI	15	15	15	14	12	11	11	11	13	14	14	14
Chiclayo UVI	14	15	15	14	13	11	11	12	15	14	14	13
Arequipa UVI	18	17	17	15	12	10	11	13	15	17	18	17
Huaraz	19	19	19	18	15	13	14	15	17	18	18	18