UV Index in Lima, Peru

Last updated: May 3, 2025

In the heart of Lima, Peru, being aware of the UV Index is crucial for safeguarding your skin health and preventing sunburn. With its semi-arid climate and high altitude, Lima experiences significant UV exposure, particularly during the midday hours when the index peaks. Understanding daily UV levels can empower residents and visitors alike to take necessary precautions, ensuring a healthier and more enjoyable time under the sun. As the UV Index can rise to a hazardous 10 by midday, knowing when to seek shade and apply sunscreen is essential for protecting your skin from its harmful effects.

Hourly UV Index in Lima

The UV Index throughout the day presents a compelling narrative of sun exposure, peaking at a staggering 10 at 12:00 PM, indicating a need for caution. As the sun rises, the UV Index gradually climbs from 1 at 7:00 AM to a notable 4 by 9:00 AM. The ascent continues, reaching 9 by 11:00 AM, before hitting its maximum at noon. However, as the afternoon progresses, the intensity wanes, with readings dropping to 7 by 2:00 PM and eventually falling to 1 by 5:00 PM. As twilight approaches, the Index dips to 0 after 6:00 PM, promising safe evening conditions. Engaging with the sun requires awareness; ensure you're protected 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.
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	7	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

Monthly UV Index Trends in Lima

Throughout the year, UV Index levels exhibit significant seasonal variations, presenting high-risk months primarily between January and March, as well as August through November, where the index remains in the extreme category (14-12) with a burn time as brief as 10 minutes. Notably, April to July sees a slight decrease, transitioning to a very high level (10-9), allowing for slightly longer exposure times of 15 minutes. With such high UV readings during peak seasons, it is essential for visitors and residents alike to take precautionary measures: apply broad-spectrum sunscreen, wear protective clothing, and seek shade during peak sun hours to minimize the risk of skin damage.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Lima, Peru

The monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) represents the highest UV radiation level recorded each month in Lima. It measures the strength of ultraviolet radiation from the sun and helps assess the risk of sunburn and UV-related health issues.

Data source: Statistical UV Index data for Lima, 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 Lima UV Index with Other Peru Cities

The table above highlights how UV exposure in Lima 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.

Lima's solar exposure compared to other cities in Peru. Generated using Copernicus Atmosphere Monitoring Service information.
	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Lima	14	14	14	12	10	9	10	11	12	13	14	13
Callao 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