Last updated: May 3, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors of San Francisco Menendez, El Salvador, where the sun's intensity can pose significant risks throughout the day. With peak UV levels reaching as high as 13 around noon, it’s imperative to be aware of the UV exposure risks to safeguard against sunburn and long-term skin damage. The region's tropical climate intensifies these concerns, making it essential to monitor UV levels and take appropriate precautions. By staying informed, you can enjoy the warm sun safely while protecting your skin health in this vibrant locale.
The UV Index throughout the day showcases a striking pattern of intensity, peaking sharply around 11:00 AM and 12:00 PM with a robust 13, signaling a high risk for sun exposure during these hours. Early morning starts gently at 2 at 7:00 AM, then steadily climbs, passing through moderate levels at 8:00 AM and 9:00 AM, before reaching a critical point with a 10 at 10:00 AM. Post-noon, the index gradually declines, dropping to 6 by 3:00 PM and further to a much safer 1 by the evening at 5:00 PM and 6:00 PM, where it ultimately settles at 0 by nightfall. To enjoy the sun while protecting your skin, plan outdoor activities early or enjoy them after the peak hours!
| Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 08:00 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
| 09:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 10:00 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
| 11:00 | 13 | extreme | 10 min |
| 12:00 | 13 | extreme | 10 min |
| 13:00 | 12 | extreme | 10 min |
| 14:00 | 9 | 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 |
The UV Index displays significant seasonal changes, with extreme exposure levels dominating from February through October, reaching a peak of 14 in March, April, and June. Notably, the high-risk months for skin damage are from February to October, where the recommended burn time is just 10 minutes. Visitors and residents should take precautionary measures during these months, such as wearing protective clothing, applying broad-spectrum sunscreen, and seeking shade during peak hours to minimize UV exposure. In contrast, November and December show a slight decrease in UV risk with a return to the very high levels of 10 and 9, allowing for a 15-minute burn time, but caution is still advised.
UV Risk Categories
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| San Francisco Menendez | 10 | 12 | 14 | 14 | 13 | 14 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 12 | 10 | 9 |
| Mejicanos UVI | 11 | 12 | 14 | 14 | 14 | 14 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 10 | 9 |
| Soyapango UVI | 11 | 12 | 14 | 14 | 14 | 14 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 10 | 9 |
| San Salvador UVI | 11 | 12 | 14 | 14 | 14 | 14 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 10 | 9 |
| San Miguel UVI | 11 | 12 | 14 | 14 | 14 | 14 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 10 | 9 |
| Santa Ana UVI | 11 | 13 | 14 | 14 | 14 | 14 | 14 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 10 | 9 |