Last updated: August 1, 2025
In Caral, Peru, understanding the UV Index is vital for maintaining skin health and preventing sunburn, particularly given the region's semi-arid climate that can expose residents and visitors to significant UV radiation. During peak hours, especially from 11 AM to 1 PM, UV levels can reach dangerously high levels, with an index value peaking at 11. By staying informed about daily UV exposure risks, individuals can take proactive measures to protect themselves, ensuring they enjoy the sun’s warmth without compromising their skin's well-being. Remember, awareness is the first step to safe sun exposure in this ancient coastal city!
The UV Index today reveals a dynamic pattern of sun exposure throughout the day. Starting at a gentle 1 at 07:00, it quickly ramps up as the sun rises higher, reaching a significant 4 by 09:00. The UV intensity peaks at a striking 11 around 12:00, signaling a critical risk for unprotected skin. As the afternoon progresses, the index gradually declines, settling at 2 by 16:00. By the evening, the risk diminishes to 0 by 18:00, making it a perfect time for an evening stroll. Stay protected during the peak hours! Remember to apply sunscreen and wear protective clothing to enjoy the sun safely.
| Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 08:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 09:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 10:00 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
| 11:00 | 11 | extreme | 10 min |
| 12:00 | 12 | extreme | 10 min |
| 13:00 | 11 | extreme | 10 min |
| 14:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 15:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 16:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 17:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 18:00 | 0 | low | 45 min |
| 19:00 | 0 | low | 45 min |
The UV Index demonstrates significant seasonal variation, remaining exceedingly high throughout the year, with an extreme exposure category consistently marked. The months from January to April show a peak UV Index of 15-16, indicating the most critical risk periods for skin damage due to sun exposure, with a burn time as brief as 10 minutes. As we transition into summer, the UV Index begins to stabilize, dropping slightly to a maximum of 12 in June and August, yet still necessitating caution. Notably, July has an 11 UV Index while September sees a rise back to 13. The risk remains elevated through October to December, with indices returning to 14. Residents and visitors should adhere to sun safety measures—such as wearing protective clothing, applying sunscreen regularly, and seeking shade during peak hours—to protect against harmful UV exposure, especially during these high-risk months when burn times are critically short.
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 |
| Caral | 15 | 15 | 16 | 14 | 12 | 10 | 11 | 12 | 13 | 15 | 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 |