Last updated: August 1, 2025
Understanding the UV Index in Barbacoas, Venezuela is crucial for protecting your skin from harmful sun exposure. With the sun’s rays reaching their peak between 11:00 AM and 1:00 PM—hovering around a critical level of 13—being aware of the UV levels can help prevent painful sunburns and long-term skin damage. The region's tropical Aw climate contributes to intense UV exposure throughout the year, making it essential for residents and visitors alike to stay informed and take necessary precautions when enjoying the outdoors. Embracing this awareness not only enhances personal health but also promotes a more enjoyable sun-exposed experience.
As the sun rises, the UV Index gradually climbs, starting from a gentle 1 at 07:00, ideal for a morning stroll. By 09:00, it reaches 4, prompting a bit more caution if you're outdoors. The sun's intensity peaks sharply at 12:00 with a blistering 13, signaling the importance of sunscreen and protective clothing, especially as it remains high until 14:00. As the afternoon progresses, the index drops steadily, falling to 4 by 16:00, and finally winding down to 1 by 18:00. As sunset approaches at 19:00, the UV threat dwindles to 0, allowing for a safe evening in the fading light. Be sure to stay protected during those peak hours!
Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
---|---|---|---|
07:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
08:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
09:00 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
10:00 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
11:00 | 11 | extreme | 10 min |
12:00 | 13 | extreme | 10 min |
13:00 | 13 | extreme | 10 min |
14:00 | 11 | extreme | 10 min |
15:00 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
16:00 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
17:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
18:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
19:00 | 0 | low | 45 min |
The UV Index remains consistently high throughout the year, with values peaking at 15 in March and April, which are the highest-risk months for sun exposure. From January to May, the index ranges from 12 to 15, indicating extreme exposure risks, while the index stabilizes around 13 from June through October and slightly decreases to 12 in November and 11 in December. Given that the burn time is only 10 minutes throughout the year, it is crucial for both visitors and residents to practice sun safety by seeking shade, wearing protective clothing, and applying sunscreen regularly, especially during peak exposure months.
UV Risk Categories
Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Maracaibo UVI | 11 | 12 | 14 | 13 | 13 | 12 | 12 | 12 | 12 | 13 | 10 | 10 |
Valencia UVI | 12 | 13 | 14 | 14 | 14 | 14 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 14 | 11 | 10 |
Barbacoas | 12 | 13 | 15 | 15 | 14 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 12 | 11 |
Maracay UVI | 12 | 13 | 14 | 14 | 14 | 14 | 13 | 13 | 14 | 14 | 11 | 10 |
Barquisimeto UVI | 12 | 13 | 14 | 14 | 15 | 14 | 13 | 14 | 14 | 13 | 12 | 10 |
Caracas UVI | 12 | 13 | 15 | 14 | 14 | 14 | 13 | 13 | 14 | 14 | 12 | 11 |