Last updated: July 2, 2025
In Paracas, Peru, understanding the UV Index is essential for safeguarding your skin and overall health. With high UV levels peaking at 10 during midday hours, being aware of these factors can significantly help in preventing painful sunburns and long-term skin damage. The region's warm desert climate means prolonged exposure to the sun, making it vital for both locals and visitors to stay informed about UV risks throughout the day. Knowing when to seek shade or apply sunscreen is crucial in protecting yourself from the intense rays that characterize this beautiful coastal paradise.
The hourly UV Index reveals a dynamic range of sun exposure today. Starting off at a gentle 1 at 7:00 AM, the index steadily climbs, peaking at a striking 10 by 12:00 PM—the peak exposure time. As the sun reaches its zenith, caution is advised for outdoor activities during the 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM window when the index remains high at 9 and 10. Following this midday surge, the index gracefully descends; by 3:00 PM, it dips to 4 and continues to decline to 1 by 5:00 PM. Finally, after a brief respite, the UV rays fade to 0 by 6:00 PM, signaling a safe return for evening outdoor plans. Stay sun-smart and enjoy the day wisely!
| 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 | 6 | high | 25 min |
| 11:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 12:00 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
| 13:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 14:00 | 7 | high | 25 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 |
The UV Index experiences significant fluctuations throughout the year, with notably high levels during the winter and early spring months. From January to March, the UV Index reaches a peak of 14, categorized as extreme, with a rapid burn time of only 10 minutes. April slightly dips to 13, still in the extreme category, before dropping to 10 and 9 in May and June, where it remains very high, allowing for a slightly longer burn time of 15 minutes. As summer transitions into fall, August sees an increase back to 11 (extreme), and September spikes to 13, with October climbing again to 14. The year concludes with November at 15 (extreme) and December back at 14. Visitors and residents should exercise caution and protective measures during these high-risk months, particularly from January through April and again in November, ensuring to use sunscreen, wear protective clothing, and limit sun exposure during peak hours to avoid skin damage.
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 |
| Paracas | 14 | 14 | 14 | 13 | 10 | 9 | 10 | 11 | 13 | 14 | 15 | 14 |
| 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 |