UV Index in San Marcos, Peru

Last updated: June 2, 2025

Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors in San Marcos, Peru, where the climate often exposes individuals to heightened levels of ultraviolet radiation. With UV levels peaking as high as 13 during midday hours, awareness of these ratings is essential for effective sunburn prevention and maintaining skin health. Given San Marcos’ unique climate, which falls in the tropical highland zone, the risks of UV exposure can significantly impact your outdoor activities. Stay informed and protect your skin by checking the UV Index regularly—it’s your best defense against the sun’s harmful rays!

Hourly UV Index in San Marcos

The UV Index today showcases a dramatic rise as the day unfolds. Starting from a gentle 1 at 7:00 AM, it escalates rapidly, peaking at a scorching 13 around noon. From 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM, sun seekers should take heed, with readings hovering between 9 and 12, marking the most intense sun exposure. As the afternoon progresses, the intensity diminishes, dropping back to 6 by 3:00 PM, and settling to a minimal 1 by 5:00 PM. After 6:00 PM, the UV Index plummets to 0, allowing for safer outdoor activities. Remember to protect your skin when the sun is at its 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	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	12	extreme	10 min
14:00	9	very high	15 min
15:00	6	high	25 min
16:00	3	moderate	30 min
17:00	1	low	45 min
18:00	0	low	45 min
19:00	0	low	45 min

Monthly UV Index Trends in San Marcos

Throughout the year, UV Index values reveal consistently extreme exposure risks, particularly from January to April when levels peak at 21. The high-risk months are January, February, and March, where the burn time is just 10 minutes, necessitating strict sun protection measures including sunscreen, hats, and protective clothing. As we move into April, although the UV Index slightly decreases to 19, caution should remain a priority. The UV Index gradually declines during the summer months, but July and August still pose substantial risks at 15. In September and October, the values rebound to 19, reminding visitors and residents that sun safety remains crucial even as seasons transition. It is advisable for everyone to stay vigilant about UV exposure year-round, especially during these peak months, to protect skin health effectively.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for San Marcos, Peru

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

The table above highlights how UV exposure in San Marcos 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.

San Marcos'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
San Marcos	21	20	21	19	16	13	15	15	19	19	18	19