UV Index in Atahualpa, Peru

Last updated: July 2, 2025

In Atahualpa, Peru, being aware of the UV Index is crucial for protecting your health and enjoying the outdoors safely. Understanding UV levels is essential for preventing sunburn and promoting long-term skin health, especially considering the region's tropical montane climate. With UV indexes peaking as high as 12 around noon, it's important to stay informed about when the sun’s rays are strongest to minimize the risk of skin damage. Whether you're hiking in the picturesque landscape or just enjoying the sun, knowledge of UV levels can make all the difference.

Hourly UV Index in Atahualpa

The UV Index throughout the day exhibits a striking pattern of intensity and decline. Starting the morning at a mere 1 at 7:00 AM, the sun's rays gradually gain strength, reaching a moderate 4 by 9:00 AM. The peak intensity hits an impressive 12 at noon, making 12:00 PM the prime time for sun exposure, which is crucial for vitamin D. As the afternoon progresses, the index begins to taper off, with 11 at 1:00 PM and gradually decreasing to 6 by 3:00 PM. The evening brings a soothing end, with a return to 1 by 5:00 PM and finally dropping to 0 by 7:00 PM. This data underscores the importance of sun safety, particularly during the midday hours when the UV exposure is at its highest.

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	8	very high	15 min
11:00	10	very high	15 min
12:00	12	extreme	10 min
13:00	11	extreme	10 min
14:00	9	very high	15 min
15:00	6	high	25 min
16:00	3	moderate	30 min
17:00	1	low	45 min
18:00	1	low	45 min
19:00	0	low	45 min

Monthly UV Index Trends in Atahualpa

Throughout the year, the UV Index remains consistently high, particularly from January to April, when it reaches an extreme level of 16. These months, including January to April, alongside September and October (both at 15), represent the highest risk times for harmful UV exposure, with a quick burn time of just 10 minutes. May to August see slightly lower values, ranging from 12 to 14, but still qualify as extreme. Visitors and residents should take precautionary measures during these high-risk months by wearing protective clothing, applying sunscreen frequently, and seeking shade during peak sunlight hours to minimize the risk of UV-related skin damage.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Atahualpa, Peru

The monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) represents the highest UV radiation level recorded each month in Atahualpa. 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 Atahualpa, 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 Atahualpa UV Index with Other Peru Cities

The table above highlights how UV exposure in Atahualpa 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.

Atahualpa'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
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
Atahualpa	16	16	16	16	14	12	12	13	15	15	14	13
Arequipa UVI	18	17	17	15	12	10	11	13	15	17	18	17