Last updated: May 3, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial in Cusco, Peru, where residents and visitors alike can be exposed to high levels of solar radiation, particularly during the midday hours. With a significant UV Index that often peaks at 13 around noon, awareness of these levels is vital for preventing sunburn and protecting long-term skin health. Due to Cusco's elevated climate and geographic location, individuals are at an increased risk for UV damage, making it essential to monitor daily UV levels and take appropriate precautions. Stay informed, safeguard your skin, and enjoy the beautiful, sunny days that Cusco has to offer!
As the sun rises higher, the UV Index showcases its dramatic dance throughout the day. Starting at a mild 1 at 07:00, the index climbs swiftly, hitting 3 by 08:00, then skyrocketing to a sizzling 10 at 10:00. The peak occurs at 11:00 and 12:00, both boasting a striking 13, making midday the most crucial time for sun safety. A gradual decline follows, with the index dropping to 4 by 15:00 and further dwindling to 1 by 17:00. As the day winds down, and night approaches, the UV levels settle to 0, reminding us that the sun's intensity can vary greatly. Stay sun-smart during those peak hours to enjoy the outdoors safely!
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 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
11:00 | 13 | extreme | 10 min |
12:00 | 13 | extreme | 10 min |
13:00 | 11 | extreme | 10 min |
14:00 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
15:00 | 4 | 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, UV Index values remain consistently high, with extreme exposure categories recorded from January through December. The months of December (UV Index 22), January (UV Index 19), February (UV Index 19), November (UV Index 19), and March (UV Index 18) are notably high-risk, where even short sun exposure can cause burns in just 10 minutes. Visitors and residents should take precautions year-round, including wearing sunscreen with high SPF, donning protective clothing, and seeking shade during peak sun hours to mitigate the risks associated with prolonged UV exposure. Prioritizing skin protection is crucial, especially during these high-risk months.
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 |
Cusco | 19 | 19 | 18 | 17 | 14 | 11 | 13 | 14 | 16 | 18 | 19 | 22 |