Last updated: June 2, 2025
Awareness of the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors in Santa Fe, Philippines, where the tropical climate brings intense sunlight throughout the year. Understanding UV levels not only helps in preventing painful sunburns but is also vital for maintaining long-term skin health. With peak UV readings soaring up to 14 in midday hours—particularly from 10 AM to 2 PM—it's essential to recognize the risks associated with outdoor activities in this beautiful region. By staying informed, you can protect yourself and enjoy all that Santa Fe has to offer while minimizing the adverse effects of UV exposure.
As the day unfolds, the UV Index begins a steady climb, starting from a manageable 2 at 07:00. By 08:00, it jumps to 5, indicating a moderate risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure. The real intensity hits between 10:00 and 12:00, peaking at a staggering 14 at noon, urging caution as this signifies a high risk for skin damage without protection. While the intensity gradually decreases after this peak, it remains notable at 12 by 13:00. The afternoon sees a substantial drop, with readings of 8 at 14:00 before plummeting to 2 by 16:00. As evening approaches, the UV Index dwindles further, with values reaching a comfortable 0 by 19:00, signaling that the sun's hazardous rays have finally retreated for the day.
| Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 08:00 | 5 | 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 | 8 | 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 |
| Santa Fe | 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 |