UV Index in Palca, Peru

Last updated: July 2, 2025

Understanding the UV Index in Palca, Peru is crucial for protecting your skin and overall health under the high-altitude sun. With its unique climate characterized by intense solar radiation, Palca sees UV levels that can reach a maximum of 11 midday, signaling a very high risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure. Being aware of these UV levels helps in preventing sunburn and long-term skin damage. For residents and visitors alike, knowing when to seek shade, wear sunscreen, and don protective clothing is essential for enjoying the beautiful outdoors while keeping skin health in check.

Hourly UV Index in Palca

Starting from the early hour of 7:00 AM, the UV Index begins at a gentle 1, but by 10:00 AM, it climbs sharply to 8, indicating a growing intensity of sun exposure. The peak arrives at 11:00 AM and 12:00 PM, where the UV Index hits a formidable 11, signaling a high risk for harm from unprotected sun exposure. As the afternoon progresses, the index begins to decline, dropping to 9 by 1:00 PM and gently easing to 6 by 2:00 PM. By the late afternoon, it further decreases to 3 at 3:00 PM, and then returns to lower levels of 1 by 5:00 PM. Finally, by 6:00 PM, the UV Index falls to 0, marking a complete retreat of UV intensity as daylight fades. It's essential to be mindful of these fluctuations, particularly during the peak hours, to ensure proper sun protection.

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	3	moderate	30 min
09:00	5	moderate	30 min
10:00	8	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

Monthly UV Index Trends in Palca

Throughout the year, UV exposure remains consistently high, with the extreme category dominating the months from January to April and again from July to October. The highest UV Index readings are observed in February and November, both reaching 19, indicating a significant risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure, where a burn can occur in just 10 minutes. Visitors and residents should take precautions during these high-risk months, particularly from January through April and from July through November. It is essential to utilize sunscreen, wear protective clothing, and seek shade, especially during peak sun hours, to mitigate the risks associated with intense UV radiation.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Palca, Peru

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

The table above highlights how UV exposure in Palca 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.

Palca'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
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
Palca	18	19	18	15	12	10	11	13	16	18	19	19