UV Index in Manila, Philippines

Last updated: May 3, 2025

Understanding the UV Index in Manila, Philippines is crucial for safeguarding your skin health and preventing sunburn. With its tropical climate, Manila experiences high UV exposure, particularly during the midday hours when the UV Index can peak at a startling 13. This makes it essential to stay informed about daily UV levels to take proactive measures against harmful sun rays. By recognizing when UV levels are elevated, you can effectively protect yourself and your loved ones, ensuring more enjoyable and safer outdoor experiences.

Hourly UV Index in Manila

The UV Index throughout the day showcases a dynamic rise and fall, reflecting the sun's intensity. Starting at a mild 2 by 7:00 AM, it gains momentum, reaching a moderate 4 at 8:00 AM. By 9:00 AM, the UV Index peaks to a 7, and then surges to a striking 10 by 10:00 AM. The midday sun is relentless, pushing the index to a maximum of 13 at both 11:00 AM and 12:00 PM. As the afternoon unfolds, there is a gradual decline; it drops to 12 at 1:00 PM, further decreasing to 9 by 2:00 PM. The late afternoon sees the UV Index easing to 5 at 3:00 PM, before trailing off into the evening with a gentle 3 at 4:00 PM. As twilight approaches, the index tapers down to 1 by 5:00 PM and remains at this level until 7:00 PM, finally hitting 0 by 8:00 PM. Stay protected during those peak hours!

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.
TimeUVICategoryTime to Burn
07:002low45 min
08:004moderate30 min
09:007high25 min
10:0010very high15 min
11:0013extreme10 min
12:0013extreme10 min
13:0012extreme10 min
14:009very high15 min
15:005moderate30 min
16:003moderate30 min
17:001low45 min
18:001low45 min
19:000low45 min

Monthly UV Index Trends in Manila

The seasonal UV index shows significant variation, with the highest values occurring from January through September, where the UV index consistently peaks at 14 in March, April, August, and September, indicating an extreme exposure category and a burn time of just 10 minutes. Visitors and residents should be particularly cautious during the high-risk months of February through September, where UV exposure is categorized as extreme. Even in November and December, the UV index remains significantly high, classified as very high, with an increased burn time of 15 minutes. It is crucial for everyone to take protective measures such as wearing sunscreen, protective clothing, and seeking shade during peak sunlight hours to minimize the risk of skin damage.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Manila, Philippines

The monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) represents the highest UV radiation level recorded each month in Manila. It measures the strength of ultraviolet radiation from the sun and helps assess the risk of sunburn and UV-related health issues.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec111314141313131414131010
Data source: Statistical UV Index data for Manila, 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 Manila UV Index with Other Philippines Cities

The table above highlights how UV exposure in Manila 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.
Manila's solar exposure compared to other cities in Philippines. Generated using Copernicus Atmosphere Monitoring Service information.
 JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Caloocan City UVI111315151314131414131010
Quezon City UVI111315151314131414131010
Manila111314141313131414131010
Budta UVI131516161413141415141311
Davao UVI131516151513141415141311