Last updated: June 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents of Palo, Peru, where the combination of a BWh climate and high sun exposure can pose significant risks to skin health. With peak UV levels reaching as high as 9 during midday, it’s essential to be aware of how to protect yourself from sunburn and long-term skin damage. By tracking UV levels, you can make informed decisions about outdoor activities and ensure that you take the necessary precautions to enjoy the sun safely. Remember, even on seemingly mild days, being UV savvy is key to keeping your skin healthy and protected!
The UV index throughout the day exhibits a dynamic rise and fall, reflecting the sun's intensity. At 07:00, the index starts low at 1, gradually climbing to 2 by 08:00. By 09:00, it reaches a moderate 4, but excitement peaks at 12:00 with a striking 9, indicating a high risk for unprotected skin. The intensity tapers down after this noon pinnacle—falling to 8 at 13:00, then 6 at 14:00. As afternoon turns to evening, the index diminishes significantly, settling at 4 by 15:00, dropping to 2 at 16:00, and finally winding down to 1 by 17:00. As the sun sets, the index recedes completely, hitting 0 by 18:00, leaving a tranquil end to the day. Remember, during peak times, sun protection is crucial!
| 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 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
| 12:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 13:00 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
| 14:00 | 6 | 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 seasonal variation, with some months posing a higher risk for sun exposure. From January to March, the UV Index remains at a striking 15, classified as extreme, indicating a burn time of just 10 minutes. April sees a slight decrease to 13, but still retains an extreme risk level. The index dips to 11 in May, then further reduces to 9 in June and 10 in July, categorizing these months as very high risk, with a burn time of 15 minutes. As summer closes out, August jumps back to an extreme index of 11, while September and October fluctuate between 13 and 14, both remaining in the extreme category with a burn time of 10 minutes. November returns to 15, and December settles at 14, both of which also represent extreme levels of UV exposure. Visitors and residents should be particularly cautious from January to March and again in November, ensuring to take preventive measures against sunburn, such as wearing protective clothing, using high-SPF sunscreen, and seeking shade during peak sunlight hours.
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 |
| Palo | 15 | 15 | 15 | 13 | 11 | 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 |