Last updated: July 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is essential for residents and visitors in Purulha, Guatemala, where the combination of altitude and climate can lead to increased sun exposure risks. With UV levels peaking at a hazardous 14 around noon, awareness of these levels is crucial for preventing sunburn and safeguarding skin health. Purulha's Cwb climate brings distinct seasonal variations, yet the potential for intense UV radiation remains a concern year-round. Equip yourself with knowledge about the UV Index to enjoy the beautiful outdoors while keeping your skin protected and healthy!
At dawn, the UV Index starts at a gentle 1, but as the sun ascends, it quickly ramps up. By 08:00, it reaches 4, a signal to be cautious outdoors. The peak occurs at 12:00, hitting a striking 14, emphasizing the need for sun protection. This intense solar intensity begins to wane after 13:00, descending to 10 by 14:00. By the late afternoon, the UV Index drops significantly, falling to 4 at 16:00 and returning to a safe level of 1 by 18:00. As evening approaches, the UV threat diminishes to 0 by 19:00, marking a day where sun safety was crucial during those midday hours.
Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
---|---|---|---|
07:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
08:00 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
09:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
10:00 | 10 | very high | 15 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 | 7 | high | 25 min |
16:00 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
17:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
18:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
19:00 | 0 | low | 45 min |
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.
UV Risk Categories
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 |
Purulha | 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 |