Last updated: August 1, 2025
In Santa Bernardina, Uruguay, understanding the UV Index is crucial for safeguarding your skin and overall health. The UV Index indicates the intensity of ultraviolet radiation from the sun, which can lead to sunburn and long-term skin damage if not monitored. With a Cfa climate that often brings sunny days, residents and visitors alike should be aware of the UV exposure risks, especially during peak hours when the index can reach 4. By staying informed about the UV levels, you can enjoy the warmth of Santa Bernardina while taking proactive steps to protect your skin health.
The UV Index throughout the day shows a gentle morning rise, starting at 0 at 07:00, then climbing to 1 by 08:00 and staying steady until it reaches 2 at 10:00. Midday brings the peak intensity, with the index soaring to 4 from 12:00 to 14:00, indicating a significant need for sun protection. As the afternoon wears on, the UV levels gradually decline, tapering back down to 1 by 16:00, before dropping to 0 after 18:00. This daily pattern highlights the importance of being mindful of UV exposure, especially between noon and early afternoon when the sun’s rays are at their strongest.
| Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07:00 | 0 | low | 45 min |
| 08:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 09:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 10:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 11:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 12:00 | 6 | high | 25 min |
| 13:00 | 6 | high | 25 min |
| 14:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 15:00 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
| 16:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 17:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 18:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 19:00 | 0 | low | 45 min |
The UV Index experiences significant fluctuations throughout the year, with high-risk months typically occurring between January and March and returning in October and November, all classified as having an extreme exposure category and a rapid burn time of just 10 minutes. April marks a transition to a very high index, making it essential for outdoor activity precautions. As the index moderates in the warmer months of May to July with a category ranging from moderate to high, the burn time increases, allowing for more prolonged exposure. However, August and September see a return to a very high level in September, reminding residents and visitors to remain vigilant. To minimize the risk of sunburn and long-term skin damage, it is crucial to wear protective clothing, apply sunscreen regularly, and seek shade, particularly during the hours of peak UV intensity.
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 |
| Santa Bernardina | 15 | 13 | 12 | 8 | 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 |