UV Index in Montevideo, Uruguay

Last updated: August 1, 2025

Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors in Montevideo, Uruguay, where the sun's rays can be more intense than they seem. With its Cfa climate, Montevideo experiences varied UV levels throughout the day, rising to a moderate 4 between 12 PM and 1 PM. Awareness of these UV levels is essential, as they play a significant role in preventing sunburn and promoting long-term skin health. By keeping an eye on the UV Index, you can enjoy the beautiful outdoor lifestyle Montevideo offers while ensuring your skin remains protected from harmful rays.

Hourly UV Index in Montevideo

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!

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	2	low	45 min
10:00	3	moderate	30 min
11:00	4	moderate	30 min
12:00	5	moderate	30 min
13:00	6	high	25 min
14:00	5	moderate	30 min
15:00	3	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

Monthly UV Index Trends in Montevideo

The UV Index indicates significant seasonal variations in UV radiation exposure, with the highest values occurring from January to March, where levels reach an extreme category (UV Index 14-11) and a rapid burn time of just 10 minutes. The months of November and December also present similar risks, returning to extreme levels (UV Index 13-14). In contrast, April and August are categorized as high (UV Index 7 and 6), allowing for slightly longer burn times of 25 minutes, whereas May, June, and July are moderate (UV Index 5-3), providing more leeway for safe exposure (30 minutes). As September and October shift to very high (UV Index 8-10), burn times decrease again to 15 minutes. Residents and visitors are advised to prioritize sun safety during high-risk months—especially from January through March and November—by wearing sunscreen, protective clothing, and seeking shade to minimize potential skin damage.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Montevideo, Uruguay

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

The table above highlights how UV exposure in Montevideo 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.

Montevideo'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
Montevideo	14	13	11	7	5	3	4	6	8	10	13	14
Las Piedras UVI	14	13	11	7	5	3	4	6	8	10	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