Last updated: May 3, 2025
Understanding the UV Index in San Cristobal, Peru, is crucial for maintaining skin health and preventing sunburn, especially in a region with a Cfb climate that can lead to varying UV exposure throughout the day. With maximum UV levels peaking at a striking 14 around noon, the importance of being aware of these fluctuations cannot be overstated. Knowing when to seek shade or apply sunscreen can significantly impact your long-term skin health and well-being. The climate here, while temperate, still poses risks during those intense midday hours, making it essential for residents and visitors alike to stay informed and protect themselves against harmful ultraviolet rays.
As the sun rises, the UV Index begins its ascent, starting at a modest 1 at 07:00. It gains momentum steadily, reaching an impressive 5 by 09:00. By 10:00, the intensity skyrockets to 9, and from 11:00 to 12:00, it hits peak levels of 12 and 14, respectively, making these hours the most dangerous for unprotected skin. A slight decline follows in the afternoon, with readings of 13 at 13:00 and 10 by 14:00, before tapering off to 7 at 15:00. As the day winds down, UV levels drop significantly, falling to 3 at 16:00, and finally settling back to 1 by 17:00 through 18:00, before fading to 0 by 19:00. It's essential to stay sun-safe during those peak hours!
| 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 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 11:00 | 12 | extreme | 10 min |
| 12:00 | 14 | extreme | 10 min |
| 13:00 | 13 | extreme | 10 min |
| 14:00 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
| 15:00 | 7 | 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 |
Throughout the year, the UV Index remains consistently high, with extreme levels recorded from January to April and again in September and October. The highest UV Index is noted in March at 17, indicating that visitors and residents should exercise caution during this month, along with February and April, which also show an index of 16. While the UV Index slightly decreases in May through July, it remains at 12-14, which is still significant for sun exposure. From August to December, the index fluctuates between 13-16, maintaining the extreme exposure category and a quick burn time of just 10 minutes. It is crucial for everyone to stay informed and take protective measures against sun exposure, especially during high-risk months, by wearing sunscreen, protective clothing, and seeking shade whenever possible.
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 |
| Chiclayo UVI | 14 | 15 | 15 | 14 | 13 | 11 | 11 | 12 | 15 | 14 | 14 | 13 |
| San Cristobal | 16 | 16 | 17 | 17 | 14 | 12 | 12 | 13 | 16 | 16 | 15 | 14 |
| Arequipa UVI | 18 | 17 | 17 | 15 | 12 | 10 | 11 | 13 | 15 | 17 | 18 | 17 |