UV Index in Atahualpa, Peru

Last updated: May 3, 2025

Awareness of the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors in Atahualpa, Peru, where the sun’s rays can be particularly intense. Understanding these UV levels is vital for preventing sunburn and maintaining long-term skin health. Atahualpa's tropical highland climate means that even during the cooler hours, UV radiation can peak significantly. With maximum UV Index values soaring up to 14 around midday, it’s essential to stay informed and take protective measures during peak sun exposure to safeguard your skin from harmful effects.

Hourly UV Index in Atahualpa

The UV Index varies significantly throughout the day, presenting a clear pattern of intensity as the sun climbs higher in the sky. Early morning hours start off gently, with a maximum of 1 at 07:00, increasing to 3 by 08:00. As the clock strikes 09:00, the Index surges to 6, signaling a rising need for sun protection. The peak occurs around 12:00, hitting an impressive 14, indicating it's crucial to stay shaded or slathered in sunscreen. Following this maximum, the intensity gradually tapers off, dropping to 10 at 14:00, then back to 6 by 15:00. The day winds down with a gentle decline as the sun sets, resulting in 3 by 16:00, and finally settling at 1 by 17:00 and returning to 0 after 18:00. This data highlights the importance of being sun-smart during the middle of the day.

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	3	moderate	30 min
09:00	6	high	25 min
10:00	9	very high	15 min
11:00	12	extreme	10 min
12:00	14	extreme	10 min
13:00	12	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

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