UV Index in San Salvador, El Salvador

Last updated: May 3, 2025

Understanding the UV Index is crucial for everyone in San Salvador, El Salvador, where the sun's rays can be particularly intense due to its tropical climate. Awareness of UV levels plays a vital role in sunburn prevention and overall skin health, helping residents and visitors enjoy the beautiful weather while minimizing risks. With peak UV Index values reaching as high as 14 around noon, it's essential to stay informed about daily UV exposure risks and take appropriate protective measures to safeguard your skin from harmful effects. Embrace the sunshine responsibly, and ensure your time outdoors remains fun and safe!

Hourly UV Index in San Salvador

The UV Index today paints a vivid picture of sun intensity throughout the day. Early risers will experience a gentle start at 07:00 with a low of 2, slowly escalating to a more noticeable 4 by 08:00. As the sun climbs higher, the UV Index reaches a peak of 14 at 12:00—the critical midday moment when sun protection is essential. From there, it begins to taper off, dropping to 12 at 13:00 before plunging down to 1 by 17:00. As evening approaches, UV exposure decreases, ultimately settling at 0 by 19:00. Remember to stay sun-safe during those peak hours!

Average solar exposure data for the current time of the year. Actual values may vary and depend on many factors, such as cloud cover, vegetation cover, surface type, etc.
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	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	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

Monthly UV Index Trends in San Salvador

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.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for San Salvador, El Salvador

The monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) represents the highest UV radiation level recorded each month in San Salvador. It measures the strength of ultraviolet radiation from the sun and helps assess the risk of sunburn and UV-related health issues.

Data source: Statistical UV Index data for San Salvador, based on information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

UV Risk Categories

Extreme (11+): Avoid the sun, stay in shade.
Very High (8-10): Limit sun exposure.
High (6-7): Use SPF 30+ and protective clothing.
Moderate (3-5): Midday shade recommended.
Low (0-2): No protection needed.

Compare San Salvador UV Index with Other El Salvador Cities

The table above highlights how UV exposure in San Salvador compares to other major locations across El Salvador. This comparison helps travelers and residents better understand regional sun intensity and plan outdoor activities with sun safety in mind.

San Salvador's solar exposure compared to other cities in El Salvador. Generated using Copernicus Atmosphere Monitoring Service information.
	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
San Salvador	11	12	14	14	14	14	13	13	13	13	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 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