Last updated: June 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors of Salto, Uruguay, where the sun’s intensity can vary significantly throughout the day. Being aware of UV levels not only helps in preventing sunburn but also plays a vital role in maintaining long-term skin health. With Salto's Cfa climate, characterized by warm, humid summers, the risk of UV exposure is particularly high during midday hours. From 11:00 AM to 2:00 PM, when the UV Index peaks at 4, it's essential to take protective measures to safeguard your skin while enjoying the beautiful outdoors. Be informed, stay protected, and enjoy the sunny days in Salto!
The UV Index today starts low, with maximum values reaching 0 by 7:00 AM. As the sun rises, it gradually climbs to 1 at 8:00 AM and stays steady until 9:00 AM. By 10:00 AM, the index jumps to 2, marking the onset of more direct sunlight. The UV exposure peaks at 4 from 12:00 PM to 14:00 PM, signaling a critical time for sun protection. Following this peak, it dips back to 2 at 15:00 PM before easing further to 1 by 16:00 PM. Finally, the day wraps up with 0 UV exposure by 19:00 PM, making the late afternoon a much safer time for outdoor activities. Don't forget to apply sunscreen during the midday hours!
| 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 | 4 | 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 levels exhibit significant seasonal variations, with the highest risk occurring during the winter months. From January to March, the UV Index remains extremely high, reaching a peak of 15 in January, where a mere 10 minutes of exposure can result in skin burns. This extreme risk continues into October and November, maintaining an index of 13 and 14 respectively, again allowing for only 10 minutes of safe exposure. As the seasons shift into spring and summer, the UV levels decrease, with April seeing a very high index of 8, and then moderating further to levels of 5 to 6 from May to August. September marks a return to very high levels at 9 before the winter extremes resume. Given this data, it is crucial for both visitors and residents to exercise caution, particularly during the high-risk months of January, February, March, October, and November. It is advisable to use sunscreen, wear protective clothing, and limit direct exposure during peak UV hours to minimize skin damage and health risks.
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 |
| Paysandu UVI | 15 | 13 | 11 | 8 | 5 | 4 | 4 | 6 | 8 | 11 | 13 | 14 |
| Salto | 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 |