Last updated: July 2, 2025
In Cochabamba, Peru, being aware of the UV Index is crucial for safeguarding your skin and overall health. Understanding UV levels not only helps prevent painful sunburns but also plays a vital role in long-term skin health. With Cochabamba's Cwb climate, characterized by high altitudes and significant UV exposure, especially from 10 AM to 2 PM when the UV Index peaks at a staggering 13, residents and visitors alike must be vigilant. By staying informed about the UV Index, you can take proactive steps to enjoy the sun safely, ensuring your outdoor adventures are both enjoyable and skin-friendly.
As the sun rises over the horizon, the UV Index starts low at 1 by 7:00 AM, gradually ramping up to 2 by 8:00 AM. However, by 9:00 AM, it takes a significant leap to 4, with intensity peaking at a notable 13 by 12:00 PM. The midday sun brings the highest risk, striking 11 at 11:00 AM, followed closely by 12 at 1:00 PM. The intensity begins to wane as the afternoon progresses, dipping to 10 at 2:00 PM, then gently declining to 7 by 3:00 PM. As the sun sets, the index drops to 1 by 5:00 PM, and ultimately fades away to 0 after 7:00 PM. It's a day of vibrant sunshine, and while the midday hours call for caution, the gradual descent of UV radiation offers a pleasant evening breeze.
| Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 08:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 09:00 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
| 10:00 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
| 11:00 | 11 | extreme | 10 min |
| 12:00 | 13 | extreme | 10 min |
| 13:00 | 12 | extreme | 10 min |
| 14:00 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
| 15:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 16:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 17:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 18:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 19:00 | 0 | low | 45 min |
The UV Index shows extreme levels throughout the year, with notably high risk from January to April when values peak at 17-18 and a consistent exposure category of extreme with a burn time of just 10 minutes. As the months progress into the summer, the UV Index slightly decreases, remaining in the 12-13 range from June to August, yet still classified as extreme. The index rises again in September and maintains high values through October and November. For both residents and visitors, it is crucial to take protective measures against sun exposure during these high-risk months, particularly in the early part of the year and during late summer, as even brief exposure can lead to severe sunburn. Prioritize wearing sunscreen, protective clothing, and seeking shade to mitigate the risk of harmful UV effects.
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 |
| Cochabamba | 16 | 17 | 18 | 17 | 15 | 12 | 13 | 13 | 17 | 16 | 16 | 15 |