UV Index in Chimaltenango, Guatemala

Last updated: August 1, 2025

Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors in Chimaltenango, Guatemala, where the climate is characterized by a temperate highland environment. With UV levels peaking at 15 around noon, awareness of sun exposure risks can significantly impact your skin health and help prevent painful sunburns. As you enjoy outdoor activities in this beautiful region, being informed about daily UV fluctuations enables you to take appropriate precautions—ensuring your time in the sun is both enjoyable and safe.

Hourly UV Index in Chimaltenango

The UV Index for the day exhibits a dramatic rise as the sun climbs higher in the sky. Starting at a modest 1 at 07:00, the intensity escalates rapidly, peaking at an impressive 15 at 12:00. From there, the UV Index remains significantly high, hovering at 14 until 13:00. A gradual decline follows, bringing it down to 7 by 15:00 and continuing to drop to 1 by 17:00. As twilight approaches, the UV Index finishes the day at 0 by 19:00, signaling a significant decrease in skin-damaging rays. This pattern highlights the importance of sun protection during the midday hours when the UV levels are at their most intense.

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	3	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	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 Chimaltenango

The UV Index exhibits significant seasonal variations, with peak values occurring from February through July, where it consistently reaches an extreme level of 13-15. This indicates that the months of March, April, July, and May are particularly high-risk for UV exposure, with a burn time of just 10 minutes. As residents and visitors plan outdoor activities, it is crucial to exercise extra caution during these months by using sunscreen, wearing protective clothing, and seeking shade whenever possible. Even in the fall and winter months, UV levels remain very high, so maintaining sun safety practices year-round is advisable.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Chimaltenango, Guatemala

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

The table above highlights how UV exposure in Chimaltenango 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.

Chimaltenango'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
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
Chimaltenango	11	13	15	15	14	14	15	14	14	13	11	10
San Juan Sacatepequez UVI	11	13	15	15	14	14	15	14	14	13	11	10