Last updated: May 3, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors in La Joya, Peru, where the high-altitude climate contributes to increased UV radiation exposure. As the sun climbs, the UV levels can reach alarming heights, peaking at 11 between 11 AM and 12 PM. This knowledge is essential for preventing sunburn and protecting skin health, as unprotected exposure can lead to serious long-term consequences. With its typical clear skies and intense sun, being mindful of UV Index levels ensures that everyone can enjoy the outdoors safely, while minimizing the risks associated with high UV exposure.
As the sun rises, the UV Index climbs steadily, starting at a gentle 1 at 7:00 AM. By 8:00 AM, it reaches 3, marking the beginning of increased sun exposure. The day continues to heat up, with the index peaking at a remarkable 11 from 11:00 AM to 12:00 PM, indicating a high risk for harm from unprotected sun exposure. As the afternoon sets in, it gradually declines, dropping to 6 by 2:00 PM and subsequently to 3 by 3:00 PM. As the sun begins to descend, the index returns to a safer 1 by 4:00 PM and tapers off to 0 after 6:00 PM. This hourly trend underscores the importance of sun protection during the midday hours when the UV exposure is at its highest.
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 | 11 | extreme | 10 min |
12:00 | 11 | extreme | 10 min |
13:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
14:00 | 6 | high | 25 min |
15:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
16:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
17:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
18:00 | 0 | low | 45 min |
19:00 | 0 | low | 45 min |
Throughout the year, UV levels remain notably high, especially from January to April and during November and December, where the UV Index often reaches extremes, peaking at 15 and 16. The high-risk months for UV exposure are therefore primarily concentrated between January and April, as well as in November. Visitors and residents alike should take precautions during these months, limiting sun exposure to 10 minutes during the day to avoid serious skin damage. As we move into June and July, while the UV Index drops slightly to 10, the exposure remains very high, allowing for a slightly longer burn time of 15 minutes. It is essential for everyone, especially in high UV months, to wear sunscreen, protective clothing, and seek shade whenever possible to safeguard against the intense solar radiation.
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 |
La Joya | 15 | 15 | 15 | 14 | 11 | 10 | 10 | 11 | 13 | 15 | 16 | 15 |
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 |