Last updated: July 2, 2025
In Santa Barbara, Venezuela, understanding the UV Index is crucial for protecting yourself under the sun's rays. With temperatures typically soaring and an Aw climate dominating the region, the potential for harmful UV exposure is significant, especially during peak hours. High UV levels can lead to painful sunburns and long-term skin health issues, making it essential for residents and visitors alike to stay informed. For instance, during midday, the UV Index can reach a staggering 13, indicating extreme risk. Keeping an eye on these levels helps ensure that you enjoy the beautiful outdoors while safeguarding your skin from damage.
The UV Index throughout the day exhibits a striking pattern, starting off at a mild level of 1 at 07:00, gradually increasing to 2 by 08:00. As the sun climbs higher, the index surges to 5 at 09:00, and then hits a peak of 13 at 12:00. The sun is its strongest around 11:00 and 12:00, with values of 12 and 13 respectively, indicating a high risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure. After this zenith, the index starts to taper off, dropping to 10 at 14:00, and further declining to 6 by 15:00. The afternoon brings relief, with levels dropping to 3 at 16:00 and settling at 1 by the evening hours after 17:00, culminating in a UV Index of 0 by 19:00. This clear trend underscores the importance of sun safety during the peak hours of the day.
Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
---|---|---|---|
07:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
08:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
09:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
10:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
11:00 | 12 | extreme | 10 min |
12:00 | 13 | extreme | 10 min |
13:00 | 12 | extreme | 10 min |
14:00 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
15:00 | 6 | high | 25 min |
16:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
17:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
18:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
19:00 | 0 | low | 45 min |
Throughout the year, UV Index levels exhibit a notable intensity, particularly from January to April, where readings consistently peak between 11 and 14, indicating an extreme exposure category with a rapid burn time of just 10 minutes. Although the UV Index tapers slightly during the summer months of June to August, it remains at a high level of 12 to 13, sustaining the risk for skin damage. September to November continue to present high UV conditions, primarily fluctuating between 12 and 13 before tapering off in December to a very high level with a lengthened burn time of 15 minutes. Visitors and residents are strongly advised to take protective measures, such as applying broad-spectrum sunscreen, wearing protective clothing, and seeking shade during peak sunlight hours, especially during March, April, and the summer months, to mitigate the risks associated with prolonged sun exposure.
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 |
Santa Barbara | 11 | 13 | 14 | 14 | 13 | 12 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 12 | 12 | 10 |
Valencia UVI | 12 | 13 | 14 | 14 | 14 | 14 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 14 | 11 | 10 |
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 |