Last updated: July 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index in Canelones, Uruguay, is crucial for protecting your skin and overall health. With a climate classified as Cfa, residents and visitors alike should be aware that UV levels can fluctuate significantly throughout the day, particularly peaking from 12 PM to 2 PM, when values reach up to 4. By staying informed about the UV Index, you can effectively prevent sunburn and long-term skin damage, making sun safety a priority. Canelones, known for its sunlit skies, poses certain exposure risks that warrant attention, especially during the warmer months. So, whether you're out enjoying the local beaches or exploring the lush countryside, staying mindful of the UV Index can help you enjoy the sun responsibly.
The UV Index throughout the day reveals a dynamic pattern of sun intensity. In the morning, it starts off low, peaking at 1 by 09:00. As the sun climbs higher, we see a steady increase with the index reaching 3 by 11:00. The highest point occurs from 12:00 to 13:00, where the UV Index hits a robust 4, indicating a need for sun protection during those hours. Following this peak, the index gradually declines, returning to 2 at 15:00, and then dropping back down to 0 by 18:00, marking the end of significant UV exposure for the day. Plan your outdoor activities accordingly to stay safe under the sun!
| Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07:00 | 0 | low | 45 min |
| 08:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 09:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 10:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 11:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 12:00 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
| 13:00 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
| 14:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 15:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 16:00 | 1 | 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 exhibit significant seasonal fluctuations, with the highest readings occurring from January to March and October to December. These months are categorized as having an extreme exposure level, with a rapid burn time of just 10 minutes, posing substantial risks for skin damage. Conversely, from April to August, the UV Index decreases, transitioning to high and moderate levels, allowing for longer exposure times of 25 to 30 minutes before burning occurs. Notably, September presents a spike back to a very high index. Given these trends, it is advisable for visitors and residents to exercise increased caution during high-risk months (particularly January, February, March, October, November, and December) by wearing protective clothing, applying broad-spectrum sunscreen, and seeking shade during peak hours.
UV Risk Categories
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Las Piedras UVI | 14 | 13 | 11 | 7 | 5 | 3 | 4 | 6 | 8 | 10 | 13 | 14 |
| Montevideo UVI | 14 | 13 | 11 | 7 | 5 | 3 | 4 | 6 | 8 | 10 | 13 | 14 |
| Canelones | 14 | 13 | 11 | 7 | 5 | 4 | 4 | 6 | 8 | 11 | 13 | 14 |
| Paysandu UVI | 15 | 13 | 11 | 8 | 5 | 4 | 4 | 6 | 8 | 11 | 13 | 14 |
| Salto UVI | 15 | 13 | 12 | 8 | 5 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 9 | 11 | 13 | 14 |
| Rivera UVI | 15 | 14 | 12 | 9 | 5 | 4 | 5 | 7 | 9 | 12 | 14 | 15 |