UV Index in Cebu City, Philippines

Last updated: July 2, 2025

Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors in Cebu City, Philippines, where the tropical climate brings high levels of sun exposure year-round. Awareness of UV levels not only aids in sunburn prevention but also plays a significant role in protecting your skin health. With the UV Index peaking at extremes—reaching as high as 13 during midday—it's essential to be informed about the daily risks and take protective measures accordingly. In Cebu’s Af climate, where sunlight is abundant, recognizing when to seek shade or apply sunscreen can make all the difference in enjoying the beautiful outdoors safely.

Hourly UV Index in Cebu City

The UV Index reveals a compelling narrative of sun intensity throughout the day. Early risers can expect a mild start at 7:00 AM with a UV Index of 2, gradually escalating to a moderate level of 4 by 8:00 AM. The sun's powerful grip tightens swiftly, hitting 7 by 9:00 AM and reaching its peak at a striking 13 from 11:00 AM to 12:00 PM. This zenith suggests it’s the ideal time to seek shade or don protective gear. As the afternoon progresses, the index gently retreats, dropping to 9 at 2:00 PM before falling to 5 by 3:00 PM. By 4:00 PM, it’s back to 2, trailing down to 0 by 6:00 PM, marking the day's end of significant sun exposure. Stay vigilant during those peak hours for safe outdoor enjoyment!

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	2	low	45 min
08:00	4	moderate	30 min
09:00	7	high	25 min
10:00	11	extreme	10 min
11:00	13	extreme	10 min
12:00	13	extreme	10 min
13:00	12	extreme	10 min
14:00	9	very high	15 min
15:00	5	moderate	30 min
16:00	2	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 Cebu City

Throughout the year, the UV Index remains consistently high, indicating an extreme exposure category from January to March, when it peaks at 16. As we transition into spring and summer, from April to July, the index slightly decreases but maintains a range of 13 to 16. The high-risk months for UV exposure are March and April, where the index hits its maximum. August to October sees a stable index of 14, ensuring that caution is always necessary. Despite reduced numbers in the latter part of the year, the UV Index remains elevated through to November. Visitors and residents are advised to always take precautions—such as wearing sunscreen and protective clothing—throughout the year, with extra vigilance during the highest months to prevent skin damage.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Cebu City, Philippines

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

The table above highlights how UV exposure in Cebu City compares to other major locations across Philippines. This comparison helps travelers and residents better understand regional sun intensity and plan outdoor activities with sun safety in mind.

Cebu City's solar exposure compared to other cities in Philippines. Generated using Copernicus Atmosphere Monitoring Service information.
	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
Cebu City	12	14	16	16	14	13	13	14	14	14	12	11
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