UV Index in San Cristobal Verapaz, Guatemala

Last updated: May 3, 2025

Understanding the UV Index in San Cristobal Verapaz, Guatemala, is crucial for maintaining skin health and preventing sunburns. With a tropical highland climate (Cwb), this vibrant location experiences varying UV levels throughout the day, peaking at a striking 14 around noon. Awareness of these fluctuations helps residents and visitors protect themselves from harmful UV radiation, ensuring enjoyable time outdoors without compromising skin safety. From morning to late afternoon, especially between 10 AM and 2 PM, being informed empowers you to take necessary precautions against sun exposure—making every adventure in this beautiful region safe and memorable.

Hourly UV Index in San Cristobal Verapaz

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.
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	13	extreme	10 min
14:00	10	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 Cristobal Verapaz

The UV Index shows significant seasonal variation, with extreme levels persisting from January through October, making these months particularly high-risk for sunburn. The highest values occur in March and April, peaking at 15, followed closely by February with a UV Index of 13. As a reminder, the burn time during these months is a mere 10 minutes, emphasizing the urgent need for protective measures. In November, the Index decreases slightly to 11, and December sees a further reduction to 9, classified as very high with a burn time of 15 minutes. Visitors and residents are strongly advised to apply sunscreen regularly, wear protective clothing, and seek shade, especially during the peak sun hours, to safeguard against the risks of overexposure to UV radiation.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for San Cristobal Verapaz, Guatemala

The monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) represents the highest UV radiation level recorded each month in San Cristobal Verapaz. 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 Cristobal Verapaz, 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 Cristobal Verapaz UV Index with Other Guatemala Cities

The table above highlights how UV exposure in San Cristobal Verapaz 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.

San Cristobal Verapaz's solar exposure compared to other cities in Guatemala. Generated using Copernicus Atmosphere Monitoring Service information.
	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Petapa UVI	11	13	14	15	14	14	14	14	14	13	10	10
Villa Nueva UVI	11	13	14	15	14	14	14	14	14	13	10	10
San Cristobal Verapaz	11	13	15	15	14	14	14	14	14	13	11	9
Mixco UVI	11	13	15	15	14	14	14	14	14	13	11	10
Guatemala City UVI	11	13	15	15	14	14	14	14	14	13	11	10
San Juan Sacatepequez UVI	11	13	15	15	14	14	15	14	14	13	11	10