UV Index in Manila, Philippines

Last updated: July 2, 2025

Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents of Manila, Philippines, where the tropical climate exposes individuals to varying levels of ultraviolet radiation throughout the day. With peak UV levels reaching 13 around midday, it’s essential to be aware of the risks associated with overexposure, including painful sunburns and long-term skin health issues. By grasping the implications of UV exposure, you can better safeguard yourself and loved ones from harmful effects, ensuring enjoyable outdoor activities while prioritizing skin protection. In a city where sunshine reigns, awareness of the UV Index can make a significant difference in everyday life.

Hourly UV Index in Manila

The UV Index today showcases a dramatic rise in intensity as the day progresses. Starting off gently at 1 at 07:00, it quickly ramps up to 4 by 08:00. The peak occurs between 11:00 and 12:00, where the index reaches a scorching 13, indicating a high risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure. As the afternoon wears on, the UV Index begins to decline, sliding down to 6 by 15:00 and further diminishing to 1 by 17:00. As evening approaches, the index drops to 0 at 19:00, signaling a safe time to relax outdoors without sun protection. This daily UV cycle serves as a reminder of the sun's powerful effects, encouraging sun safety 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.
Time	UVI	Category	Time to Burn
07:00	1	low	45 min
08:00	4	moderate	30 min
09:00	7	high	25 min
10:00	10	very high	15 min
11:00	13	extreme	10 min
12:00	13	extreme	10 min
13:00	12	extreme	10 min
14:00	10	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

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.

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.
	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	11	13	14	14	13	13	13	14	14	13	10	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