UV Index in Santa Elena, El Salvador

Last updated: May 3, 2025

Understanding the UV Index in Santa Elena, El Salvador, is crucial for safeguarding your skin health while enjoying the sunny, tropical climate. With UV levels peaking at 14 around noon, being aware of the UV Index helps you take proactive measures against sunburn and long-term skin damage. In this vibrant region characterized by its pleasant, warm weather, residents and visitors alike face significant exposure risks, particularly during the midday hours. Stay informed and protect yourself from harmful UV radiation by checking the UV Index regularly.

Hourly UV Index in Santa Elena

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.

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	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

Monthly UV Index Trends in Santa Elena

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 Santa Elena, El Salvador

The monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) represents the highest UV radiation level recorded each month in Santa Elena. 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 Santa Elena, 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 Santa Elena UV Index with Other El Salvador Cities

The table above highlights how UV exposure in Santa Elena 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.

Santa Elena'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
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
Santa Elena	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