UV Index in Punta del Este, Uruguay

Last updated: June 2, 2025

In Punta del Este, Uruguay, staying aware of the UV Index is essential for maintaining healthy skin and preventing painful sunburn. Understanding UV levels is crucial, especially in this coastal haven where the sun’s rays can be particularly intense. With a Cfb climate that offers mild summers, residents and visitors alike should be mindful of midday UV readings reaching levels of 3—a signal to take protective measures. By being informed, you can better enjoy Punta del Este's stunning beaches and vibrant outdoor activities while safeguarding your skin from the risks of overexposure.

Hourly UV Index in Punta del Este

The UV Index throughout the day reveals a gradual increase in sun intensity, peaking mid-afternoon. Starting at 0 at 07:00, the index rises to 1 by 08:00 and remains moderate at 1 for the following hour. As the sun ascends, the intensity reaches 2 by 10:00, climbing further to 3 at 11:00, sustaining this level until 14:00. After this peak, a gentle decline begins, with the index dropping to 2 at 15:00, and gradually easing back to 1 by 17:00, before retreating to 0 by 18:00. For anyone spending time outdoors, the late morning to early afternoon presents the highest UV exposure; thus, caution and sun protection are highly advisable during these 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	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	3	moderate	30 min
13:00	3	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

Monthly UV Index Trends in Punta del Este

Throughout the year, UV levels experience significant fluctuations, with the highest risks typically occurring from January to March and during November and December, when the UV Index peaks at 14 and 13, indicating an extreme exposure category with a rapid burn time of just 10 minutes. After a drop in April (UV Index 7, high category), the UV exposure remains moderate from May to July, before rising again in September (UV Index 8, very high) and stabilizing at high levels in August. Given these patterns, it is crucial for visitors and residents to take proper precautions during high-risk months, particularly by wearing sunscreen, protective clothing, and limiting sun exposure during peak hours to safeguard against harmful UV radiation.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Punta del Este, Uruguay

The monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) represents the highest UV radiation level recorded each month in Punta del Este. 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 Punta del Este, 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 Punta del Este UV Index with Other Uruguay Cities

The table above highlights how UV exposure in Punta del Este compares to other major locations across Uruguay. This comparison helps travelers and residents better understand regional sun intensity and plan outdoor activities with sun safety in mind.

Punta del Este's solar exposure compared to other cities in Uruguay. Generated using Copernicus Atmosphere Monitoring Service information.
	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
Punta del Este	14	13	11	7	5	3	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