Last updated: June 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents of Santa Maria, Philippines, where the tropical climate brings about significant sun exposure. By knowing the UV levels, you can take proactive steps to protect your skin from the harmful effects of ultraviolet rays, which can cause painful sunburns and increase the risk of skin cancer. With peak UV levels soaring to 14 around midday, it's essential to be aware of your sun safety practices throughout the day. Whether you're enjoying outdoor activities or simply soaking in the sun, being informed about the UV Index can help safeguard your skin health against the unique risks presented by Santa Maria's sunny disposition.
The UV Index for the day showcases a dynamic rise and fall, peaking in the early afternoon. From a gentle 2 at 7:00 AM, the index escalates to 11 by 10:00 AM, reaching its zenith of 14 at 12:00 PM. This is the point to be cautious; between 11:00 AM and 1:00 PM with values of 13 and 12 respectively, the midday sun is at its strongest. As the afternoon progresses, the UV Index declines, dropping to 9 at 2:00 PM, and continuing to diminish to 6 by 3:00 PM. The evening brings a welcome relief, with readings falling to 1 by both 5:00 PM and 6:00 PM, and finally settling at 0 as the day fades into night. Be sure to protect your skin during those peak hours!
| Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 08:00 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
| 09:00 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
| 10:00 | 11 | extreme | 10 min |
| 11:00 | 13 | extreme | 10 min |
| 12:00 | 14 | extreme | 10 min |
| 13:00 | 12 | 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 |
Throughout the year, UV Index levels in this region show significant seasonal changes, particularly peaking from March to August with values ranging from 13 to 15, indicating an extreme exposure category and a swift burn time of just 10 minutes. The high-risk months for UV exposure are thus March, April, August, and September, which consistently maintain a high index of 14 or more. Residents and visitors are advised to take precautionary measures during these months, such as wearing sunscreen, protective clothing, and sunglasses, as well as seeking shade whenever possible to minimize the risk of skin damage. In contrast, while December sees a slightly lower UV Index of 10, it still presents a very high risk, underscoring the importance of sun protection even in the winter months.
UV Risk Categories
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Caloocan City UVI | 11 | 13 | 15 | 15 | 13 | 14 | 13 | 14 | 14 | 13 | 10 | 10 |
| Quezon City UVI | 11 | 13 | 15 | 15 | 13 | 14 | 13 | 14 | 14 | 13 | 10 | 10 |
| Manila UVI | 11 | 13 | 14 | 14 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 14 | 14 | 13 | 10 | 10 |
| Santa Maria | 11 | 13 | 15 | 15 | 13 | 14 | 14 | 15 | 14 | 13 | 11 | 10 |
| Budta UVI | 13 | 15 | 16 | 16 | 14 | 13 | 14 | 14 | 15 | 14 | 13 | 11 |
| Davao UVI | 13 | 15 | 16 | 15 | 15 | 13 | 14 | 14 | 15 | 14 | 13 | 11 |