UV Index in Rabinal, Guatemala

Last updated: July 2, 2025

Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors in Rabinal, Guatemala, where the sun’s intensity can reach alarming levels, especially during midday hours. Awareness of UV levels helps prevent sunburn and protects skin health by allowing individuals to take necessary precautions when the index rises. In Rabinal’s Cwb climate, with its unique combination of altitude and tropical influences, UV exposure can be significant, particularly between 10 AM and 2 PM when the UV Index peaks at a striking 14. By staying informed about UV levels, you can enjoy the beautiful surroundings safely while safeguarding your skin.

Hourly UV Index in Rabinal

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.

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	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

Monthly UV Index Trends in Rabinal

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 Rabinal, Guatemala

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

The table above highlights how UV exposure in Rabinal 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.

Rabinal'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
Rabinal	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