Last updated: August 1, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors in Pacaraos, Peru, where the combination of high elevation and tropical climate can lead to significant UV exposure. With UV levels reaching a potentially harmful 13 during midday, being aware of these fluctuations is key to preventing sunburn and protecting your skin health. As a place nestled in an ET climate zone, Pacaraos presents unique challenges that make it essential to monitor UV levels, especially during peak sunlight hours. By understanding the UV Index, you can enjoy the beautiful outdoors while minimizing your risk of sun-related damage.
The UV Index throughout the day shows noticeable fluctuations, peaking dramatically at 12:00 PM with a striking 13, indicating a high potential for skin damage without protection. The morning starts gently, with a low 1 at 7:00 AM, gradually ascending to a moderate 5 by 9:00 AM. As the sun ascends, the intensity spikes, reaching a significant 12 by 11:00 AM. After the zenith, the index begins its descent, dropping to 10 at 2:00 PM and tapering off to 3 by 4:00 PM. As evening approaches, the UV exposure diminishes to 1 by 5:00 PM, and eventually settles at 0 after 6:00 PM, emphasizing the importance of UV awareness during peak midday hours.
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 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
11:00 | 13 | extreme | 10 min |
12:00 | 14 | extreme | 10 min |
13:00 | 13 | extreme | 10 min |
14:00 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
15:00 | 6 | high | 25 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 |
Throughout the year, the UV Index remains alarmingly high, consistently categorized as extreme from January to December. The high-risk months are particularly apparent in March with a UV Index of 19, followed closely by February, and January at 18. During these months, residents and visitors are advised to take strict precautions against overexposure, as the burn time is just 10 minutes, making sun protection essential. It is crucial to wear sunscreen, protective clothing, and sunglasses, and to seek shade during peak UV hours to minimize the risk of 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 |
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 |
Pacaraos | 18 | 18 | 19 | 17 | 14 | 12 | 13 | 14 | 16 | 17 | 17 | 17 |