Last updated: August 1, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors in Costa Azul, Uruguay, where sunny days are prevalent due to its Cfa climate zone. As UV levels can rise significantly during peak hours, being aware of this information helps in preventing painful sunburns and maintaining skin health. From 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM, the UV Index can reach up to 4, indicating a moderate risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure. With this knowledge, you can take the necessary precautions to enjoy the beautiful beaches while safeguarding your skin against potential damage.
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 | 1 | 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 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 13:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 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 |
The UV Index exhibits significant seasonal fluctuations, with the highest levels during the winter months. From January to March, the UV Index reaches extreme levels (14 to 11) with a dangerously low burn time of just 10 minutes, indicating a high risk of skin damage. April marks a decrease to a high level (7) with a burn time of 25 minutes, while May and June see moderate levels (5 to 3), allowing for slightly safer outdoor activities with burn times increasing to 30 minutes. August and September reflect a return to higher risk, with September jumping to a very high index of 8 and a burn time of 15 minutes. The year concludes with October and November returning to extreme levels (11 to 13) and a burn time of just 10 minutes. Visitors and residents are advised to remain vigilant, especially during the high-risk months of January through March and October through November, ensuring proper sun protection such as sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses whenever exposed to the sun.
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 |
| Costa Azul | 14 | 13 | 11 | 7 | 5 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 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 |