UV Index in El Alto, Peru

Last updated: May 3, 2025

Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors in El Alto, Peru, where the intense altitude and dry climate amplify sun exposure risks. With values soaring as high as 13 during midday hours, awareness of UV levels is essential for preventing sunburn and protecting your skin health. As El Alto experiences a BWh climate, both locals and tourists need to be vigilant about daily sun protection strategies, especially during peak hours from 10 AM to 2 PM. Stay informed, stay safe, and enjoy the beautiful sun while minimizing the risks!

Hourly UV Index in El Alto

As the sun rises, the UV Index begins its gradual ascent, hitting a mild 1 by 7:00 AM. The intensity grows steadily, reaching 2 by 8:00 AM and then surging to 5 at 9:00 AM. By 10:00 AM, the index peaks at a robust 8, warning of increasing exposure risk. 11:00 AM sees the UV rays intensify to an impressive 11, leading to a maximum of 13 at 12:00 PM, making it critical to stay protected. The afternoon sun starts to mellow out, dropping to 12 by 1:00 PM, then gradually tapering off to 10 at 2:00 PM, 6 at 3:00 PM, and further declining to 3 at 4:00 PM. Finally, as evening descends, the index falls to 1 by 5:00 PM and remains at that level through 6:00 PM, until fading to 0 after sunset at 7:00 PM. Stay vigilant and shield yourself during those peak midday 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	5	moderate	30 min
10:00	8	very high	15 min
11:00	11	extreme	10 min
12:00	13	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	1	low	45 min
19:00	0	low	45 min

Monthly UV Index Trends in El Alto

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.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for El Alto, Peru

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

The table above highlights how UV exposure in El Alto 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.

El Alto'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
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