Last updated: August 1, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors in Cotahuasi, Peru, where the high-altitude climate ensures that sun exposure comes with significant risks. The importance of monitoring UV levels cannot be overstated, as it plays a vital role in sunburn prevention and maintaining skin health. With UV Index values soaring to 12 during peak hours, it’s essential to take precautions against harmful rays, especially in this region known for its unique climate characteristics. By staying informed about local UV exposure risks, you can enjoy the sun safely while protecting your skin from potential damage.
As the day unfolds, the UV Index begins to rise steadily, peaking at 12 around noon, indicating a high risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure. Starting from a mild 1 at 07:00, it climbs to 2 by 08:00, then surges to a significant 9 by 10:00. The intensity continues to escalate, reaching its maximum at 11 by 11:00, just before noon. After a slight dip to 8 by 14:00, the UV Index begins its gradual decline, dropping to 2 by 16:00, and finally resting at 0 by 18:00—a clear indication that the sun's rays are no longer a concern. To protect your skin, it's crucial to seek shade and apply sunscreen during those peak hours!
| Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 08:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 09:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 10:00 | 11 | extreme | 10 min |
| 11:00 | 13 | extreme | 10 min |
| 12:00 | 14 | 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 |
Throughout the year, the UV Index remains extremely high, particularly from January to November, with values consistently around 19 to 18, indicating a high risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure. March sees a slight dip at 18, while June and July reduce slightly to 11 and 12, respectively, but still warranted caution. May and August present minor variations, with indices of 13 and 14. As we transition to September, the UV Index returns to 16, and November marks a peak at 19 again. Given these conditions, it is crucial for visitors and residents to take proactive measures to protect themselves from sun exposure during these high-risk months. This includes wearing protective clothing, applying sunscreen frequently, and seeking shade whenever possible, particularly during the midday hours. Remember, a burn time of just 10 minutes underscores the urgency of sun safety in this region year-round.
UV Risk Categories
| 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 |
| Cotahuasi | 19 | 19 | 18 | 16 | 13 | 11 | 12 | 14 | 16 | 18 | 19 | 18 |