UV Index in Palca, Peru

Last updated: June 2, 2025

In Palca, Peru, awareness of the UV Index is crucial for protecting your skin and overall health. Understanding UV levels not only helps prevent painful sunburn but also plays a significant role in safeguarding against long-term skin damage. Nestled in a high-altitude climate characterized by intense sunlight, Palca experiences notable UV exposure, especially during the midday hours when the index can peak at 12. By staying informed about daily UV fluctuations, residents and visitors can take proactive measures to enjoy the outdoors safely while minimizing risks associated with harmful ultraviolet radiation.

Hourly UV Index in Palca

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!

Average solar exposure data for the current time of the year. Actual values may vary and depend on many factors, such as cloud cover, vegetation cover, surface type, etc.
TimeUVICategoryTime to Burn
07:001low45 min
08:002low45 min
09:005moderate30 min
10:009very high15 min
11:0011extreme10 min
12:0012extreme10 min
13:0011extreme10 min
14:008very high15 min
15:005moderate30 min
16:002low45 min
17:001low45 min
18:000low45 min
19:000low45 min

Monthly UV Index Trends in Palca

The UV Index exhibits remarkably high levels throughout the entire year, consistently falling within the extreme exposure category. From January to April, the UV Index remains at 19, posing the highest risk for skin damage with a rapid burn time of just 10 minutes. May sees a slight decrease to 14, while June to August fluctuates between 12 and 14. However, September marks a resurgence with a UV Index of 16, and October and November follow closely behind at 18. December slightly drops to 17. Given these persistently high UV levels, it is crucial for both visitors and residents to take strict precautions during all months, including wearing protective clothing, applying broad-spectrum sunscreen, and limiting direct sun exposure, especially during peak hours.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Palca, Peru

The monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) represents the highest UV radiation level recorded each month in Palca. It measures the strength of ultraviolet radiation from the sun and helps assess the risk of sunburn and UV-related health issues.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec191919171412131416181817
Data source: Statistical UV Index data for Palca, based on information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

UV Risk Categories

  •  Extreme (11+): Avoid the sun, stay in shade.
  •  Very High (8-10): Limit sun exposure.
  •  High (6-7): Use SPF 30+ and protective clothing.
  •  Moderate (3-5): Midday shade recommended.
  •  Low (0-2): No protection needed.

Compare Palca UV Index with Other Peru Cities

The table above highlights how UV exposure in Palca compares to other major locations across Peru. This comparison helps travelers and residents better understand regional sun intensity and plan outdoor activities with sun safety in mind.
Palca's solar exposure compared to other cities in Peru. Generated using Copernicus Atmosphere Monitoring Service information.
 JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Callao UVI14141412109101112131413
Lima UVI14141412109101112131413
Trujillo UVI151515141211111113141414
Chiclayo UVI141515141311111215141413
Arequipa UVI181717151210111315171817
Palca191919171412131416181817