Last updated: July 2, 2025
In La Esmeralda, Peru, understanding the UV Index is crucial for maintaining skin health and preventing sunburn. With a climate categorized as BWh, residents and visitors alike need to be aware of the potential for high UV exposure, particularly as levels soar to a dangerous 11 between midday and early afternoon. By keeping a close eye on the UV Index, you can take proactive measures to protect your skin while enjoying the sun-soaked beauty of La Esmeralda. Ensuring you’re informed about these UV levels can significantly reduce the risk of sun-related health issues, allowing for safer outdoor fun.
The UV Index throughout the day showcases a distinct peak in intensity, making it essential to stay sun-safe. Starting with a mild level of 1 at 07:00 and 08:00, the index dramatically rises as the sun ascends, reaching a notable 4 by 09:00. The real break comes between 10:00 and 13:00, where a sharp increase sees the UVI soar to an impressive 11 at its highest point. As the afternoon progresses, the index gently declines, dipping to 9 at 14:00, before tapering off to a comfortable 6 by 15:00. By evening, the intensity fades back to 1 at 17:00 and concludes with a safe level of 0 by 19:00. Remember to take precautions, especially during those peak hours of 11:00 to 13:00 when UV exposure is at its worst!
| Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 08:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 09:00 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
| 10:00 | 6 | 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 shows consistently high levels throughout the year, peaking in March with a striking 16 and remaining in the extreme exposure category. The high-risk months for sun exposure are January through April, during which the UV Index ranges from 14 to 16, indicating a burn time of just 10 minutes before significant skin damage can occur. While summer months, particularly June and July, reflect a slight decrease to 11, the risk remains classified as extreme. Visitors and residents are advised to take necessary precautions during these months, such as wearing broad-spectrum sunscreen, protective clothing, and seeking shade, especially during peak sunlight hours. Remember, even on cloudy days, UV rays can penetrate and cause harm, so stay vigilant throughout 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 |
| La Esmeralda | 14 | 15 | 16 | 15 | 13 | 11 | 11 | 12 | 13 | 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 |