Last updated: June 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is vital for residents and visitors of Santa Ana, Peru, where the interplay of high altitude and tropical climate can significantly elevate UV exposure levels. Being aware of UV levels is essential not just for avoiding painful sunburns but also for protecting long-term skin health. With a climate characterized by an ET zone, Santa Ana experiences intense UV radiation, especially during midday hours when the index can peak at a staggering 13. By staying informed about daily UV fluctuations, you can better enjoy the beautiful outdoors while safeguarding your skin from potential harm.
The UV Index reveals a striking pattern throughout the day, peaking dramatically around noon. Starting from a gentle 1 at 07:00, the index climbs steadily, hitting 3 by 08:00 before surging to 10 at 10:00 and reaching its maximum of 13 at 12:00. This midday high suggests the need for strong sun protection as the intensity begins to wane in the afternoon, dropping to 9 at 14:00 and further declining to a moderate 5 by 15:00. As the sun sets, the UV Index drops sharply to 2 at 16:00 and returns to its morning levels with a 1 at 17:00 and 0 from 18:00 onward. For sun-enthusiasts and safety-conscious individuals alike, the data paints a clear picture: the hours around midday demand the utmost vigilance against UV exposure!
| Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 08:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 09:00 | 6 | high | 25 min |
| 10:00 | 10 | 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 |
Throughout the year, UV Index levels remain consistently high, categorizing exposure as extreme. January through April sees the highest values, peaking at 23, indicating a 10-minute burn time for unprotected skin. Even as we move into May to August, while the index decreases to a minimum of 13, the risk remains significant, with 10 minutes still representing the time frame for potential burns. September and October return to 20, with November and December slightly lower at 21. Given this data, it is crucial for both visitors and residents to take stringent sun protection measures year-round, particularly during the high-risk months from January to April, and to remain vigilant even in the late fall and winter months. Wearing sunscreen, protective clothing, and seeking shade are all essential steps to ensure outdoor safety.
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 |
| Santa Ana | 23 | 23 | 22 | 20 | 15 | 13 | 14 | 16 | 18 | 20 | 21 | 21 |