Last updated: August 1, 2025
In Ciudad Barrios, El Salvador, awareness of the UV Index is crucial for protecting your skin from harmful ultraviolet radiation. With UV levels peaking at a scorching 13 around midday, understanding these fluctuations can be key to preventing sunburn and long-term skin damage. The tropical climate of Ciudad Barrios, characterized by its warmth and abundant sunlight, increases the risk of overexposure, making it essential to stay informed about daily UV ratings. By being vigilant about UV exposure, you can enjoy the sun safely while prioritizing your skin health and overall well-being.
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 | 1 | low | 45 min |
08:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
09:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
10:00 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
11:00 | 12 | 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 clearly demonstrates a pattern of extreme sun exposure from January through July. The highest values peak in March to June, with an index of 14, indicating the most critical months for UV risk. As summer transitions into fall, the index gradually decreases but remains at a high level through August and September. Notably, November and December present a slight reduction to very high levels, with a burn time of 15 minutes. Residents and visitors should take precautionary measures during these high-risk months, such as wearing protective clothing, applying broad-spectrum sunscreen, and seeking shade to minimize UV exposure and prevent sunburn.
UV Risk Categories
Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
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 |
Ciudad Barrios | 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 |