UV Index in Coban, Guatemala

Last updated: May 3, 2025

Understanding the UV Index in Coban, Guatemala is crucial for anyone wanting to protect their skin and maintain overall health. With a tropical highland climate that offers a unique blend of sun and humidity, fluctuations in UV levels throughout the day can pose significant risks, especially during peak hours when the index reaches a staggering 14. This means that sunburns can occur in just minutes without proper protection. By being aware of the UV Index, residents and visitors alike can take informed precautions, ensuring they enjoy the stunning landscapes of Coban while safeguarding their skin against harmful UV rays.

Hourly UV Index in Coban

The UV Index today showcases a dramatic rise in solar intensity, starting with a moderate level of 2 at 7:00 AM. As the sun climbs higher in the sky, the intensity peaks at a staggering 14 by noon, marking the most hazardous time for sun exposure. It reaches a maximum of 13 at 1:00 PM, emphasizing the need for protective measures like sunscreen and hats. The afternoon sees a swift decline, dropping to 10 by 2:00 PM and further down to 6 at 3:00 PM. As evening approaches, the UV Index dips to 1 by 5:00 PM, offering some relief, before finally settling at 0 after 7:00 PM. For those planning their day, early morning and late evening provide a safer window for outdoor activities, while midday requires caution to avoid overexposure.

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.
TimeUVICategoryTime to Burn
07:002low45 min
08:004moderate30 min
09:007high25 min
10:0011extreme10 min
11:0013extreme10 min
12:0014extreme10 min
13:0013extreme10 min
14:0010very high15 min
15:006high25 min
16:003moderate30 min
17:001low45 min
18:001low45 min
19:000low45 min

Monthly UV Index Trends in Coban

The UV Index experiences significant seasonal variation, peaking in the spring and summer months. January starts with a UV Index of 10 (very high), which increases sharply to 12 in February and reaches an extreme 14 by March. The highest levels occur from April to September, maintaining an extreme 14 throughout, with the UV Index only dipping slightly to 13 in September. October also remains in the extreme category at 12, before dropping back to very high levels of 10 in November and 9 in December. Given these values, the high-risk months for sun exposure are from March to October, and it is crucial for visitors and residents to take proactive measures during these times—limiting sun exposure to no more than 10 minutes during peak hours, wearing protective clothing, and applying broad-spectrum sunscreen to avoid harmful UV effects.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Coban, Guatemala

The monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) represents the highest UV radiation level recorded each month in Coban. It measures the strength of ultraviolet radiation from the sun and helps assess the risk of sunburn and UV-related health issues.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec10121415141414141312109
Data source: Statistical UV Index data for Coban, 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 Coban UV Index with Other Guatemala Cities

The table above highlights how UV exposure in Coban compares to other major locations across Guatemala. This comparison helps travelers and residents better understand regional sun intensity and plan outdoor activities with sun safety in mind.
Coban's solar exposure compared to other cities in Guatemala. Generated using Copernicus Atmosphere Monitoring Service information.
 JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Coban10121415141414141312109
Petapa UVI111314151414141414131010
Villa Nueva UVI111314151414141414131010
Mixco UVI111315151414141414131110
Guatemala City UVI111315151414141414131110
San Juan Sacatepequez UVI111315151414151414131110