Last updated: May 3, 2025
In San Miguel, El Salvador, being aware of the UV Index is crucial for health and safety, especially under its tropical climate, which is characterized by strong sunlight year-round. Understanding UV levels not only helps prevent painful sunburns but also plays a significant role in maintaining long-term skin health. With peak UV Index readings soaring as high as 14 around noon, residents and visitors alike must take proactive measures to protect themselves from harmful UV exposure. By keeping track of the UV Index, you can enjoy the beautiful sunny days of San Miguel while safeguarding your skin.
The UV Index trend throughout the day reveals a striking peak during midday hours, urging caution for outdoor enthusiasts. Starting modestly at 2 at 07:00, the index rapidly climbs, reaching a significant 14 by 12:00, making this the most critical time for sun exposure. Even as the clock ticks towards the afternoon, the UV levels remain high, peaking at 13 at 11:00 and 12:00, before gradually declining to 5 by 15:00. As the day winds down, the index drops to 3 at 16:00, then tapering off to 1 by the evening hours. For those venturing outside, it's essential to protect your skin between 10:00 AM and 2:00 PM, when the sun's rays are most intense.
Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
---|---|---|---|
07:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
08:00 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
09:00 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
10:00 | 11 | extreme | 10 min |
11:00 | 13 | extreme | 10 min |
12:00 | 14 | extreme | 10 min |
13:00 | 12 | extreme | 10 min |
14:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
15:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 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 |
San Miguel | 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 |