Last updated: July 2, 2025
In La Paz, Philippines, understanding the UV Index is crucial for protecting your skin and overall health. With its tropical climate, residents and visitors alike face significant sun exposure risks, particularly during the peak hours when UV levels soar. By being aware of these levels, you can effectively prevent sunburn, reduce the risk of skin damage, and enjoy the beautiful outdoors safely. On a typical day, you'll find UV Index values reaching as high as 13 around noon, emphasizing the need for proactive sun protection measures. So, whether you're lounging on the beach or exploring the vibrant local culture, keeping an eye on the UV Index is essential for your sun safety in La Paz.
At dawn, the UV Index begins its climb, starting at a gentle 2 at 07:00. By 08:00, it rises to 4, signaling the start of a sunny day. However, the sun's intensity becomes more pronounced as the clock strikes 09:00, with the index hitting 8. The peak occurs between 10:00 and 12:00, where it surges to a blistering 13, urging sun-seekers to take precautions. As the afternoon progresses, the index gradually lowers to 9 at 14:00, and further descends to 5 by 15:00. By 16:00, it drops significantly to 2, and rolls down to 1 by 17:00. Finally, as twilight approaches, the UV Index hits 0 at 18:00, concluding a day that swung from mild to intense sun exposure—illustrating the importance of sun protection during 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 | 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 |
Throughout the year, UV Index values in this area remain consistently high, indicating an extreme exposure category that necessitates caution. January through April display the most intense UV levels, peaking at 16 in both March and April, which along with February, marks the highest-risk months. However, even during the summer months from May to July, the UV Index maintains dangerously elevated levels around 14-16, requiring vigilant sun protection. Returning to the fall and winter months, while values slightly decline to 12 in November and 11 in December, the risk remains significant. Therefore, it is crucial for visitors and residents alike to prioritize sun safety by using adequate sunscreen, wearing protective clothing, and seeking shade, particularly during midday hours when the sun’s intensity is at its peak, regardless of the month.
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 |
| La Paz | 12 | 13 | 16 | 16 | 14 | 14 | 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 |