Last updated: July 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is essential for residents and visitors in El Alto, Peru, where high altitudes and a unique climate amplify sun exposure risks. As the sun rises, UV levels can soar, reaching a peak of 11 around midday, highlighting the urgent need for sunburn prevention and skin health awareness. With a BWh climate characterized by intense sunlight and clear skies, it's crucial to protect your skin, as even short exposures can lead to harmful effects. Stay informed about UV levels to safeguard your health while enjoying the beauty of El Alto!
At dawn, the UV Index starts at a gentle 1 by 7:00 AM, gradually rising as the sun climbs higher in the sky. By 9:00 AM, it reaches a moderate 4, urging early risers to stay vigilant. The intensity peaks at noon, hitting a scorching 11, indicating a high risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure. This peak continues until 1:00 PM, where it remains at 11 before beginning its descent. The afternoon sees a noticeable drop, with the index falling to 6 by 3:00 PM and further decreasing to 3 by 4:00 PM. As the day winds down, the UV Index drops to a safe 1 by 5:00 PM and finally falls to 0 by 7:00 PM, signaling the end of the sun's powerful rays. Stay informed and protect your skin during those peak hours!
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 | 11 | 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 |
The UV Index levels fluctuate significantly throughout the year, remaining in the extreme category from January to August and dropping slightly from September to December. The high-risk months for UV exposure are from January to April, where the index peaks at 16 in March. Visitors and residents should take precautions during these months, limiting sun exposure to 10 minutes to avoid sunburn. Even in June through August, the UV Index remains high, necessitating the use of sunscreen, protective clothing, and seeking shade, especially during midday hours. As the UV levels decrease into the fall and winter, individuals are still advised to stay vigilant, as mid-range UV levels persist through the end of the year.
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 |
El Alto | 14 | 15 | 16 | 15 | 13 | 11 | 11 | 12 | 14 | 13 | 13 | 13 |
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 |