Last updated: May 3, 2025
In San Miguel Chicaj, Guatemala, understanding the UV Index is crucial for protecting your skin from the sun's harmful rays. With a climate categorized as Cwb, the region experiences significant variations in UV exposure throughout the day. Notably, the UV Index peaks at an alarming 14 around noon, indicating an increased risk of sunburn and long-term skin damage. By monitoring UV levels, residents and visitors can take proactive measures to ensure skin health, enjoy outdoor activities safely, and minimize the chances of sun-related health issues. Stay informed and safeguard your skin while basking in the beautiful Guatemalan sunshine!
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.
| 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 |
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 |
| San Miguel Chicaj | 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 |