Last updated: July 2, 2025
In Esquipulas, Guatemala, understanding the UV Index is crucial for safeguarding your skin and overall health. As a region classified under the Aw climate zone, Esquipulas experiences intense sunlight, especially between 10 AM and 2 PM when UV levels can soar to a dangerous 14. Awareness of the UV Index not only helps in preventing painful sunburns but also plays a vital role in reducing the long-term risk of skin damage. With typical afternoon readings reaching extreme levels, staying informed about daily UV exposure can empower you to take proactive measures for your skin's well-being while enjoying the beautiful weather of Esquipulas.
At dawn, the UV Index starts softly at 2 by 07:00, suggesting a low risk for sun exposure. As the morning progresses, it escalates to 4 by 08:00 and reaches 7 at 09:00, indicating a moderate level of sun intensity. The day peaks with an impressive 14 at 12:00, where sun safety becomes crucial as the risk is rated high. Afternoon hours see a gradual decline from 13 at 13:00 down to 10 by 14:00, before dropping further to 6 at 15:00. As the sun begins to set, the UV Index dwindles to 3 by 16:00, and finally settles at 1 by 17:00 and 18:00, with a complete drop to 0 by 19:00, signaling that the sun's rays are no longer a concern. Always remember to protect your skin during those high UV periods!
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 | 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 | 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 |
Throughout the year, the UV Index experiences significant fluctuations, with extreme levels persisting from January to September, particularly peaking in March and April at an index of 15. The high-risk months are clearly defined from January to September, where the burn time is critically low at just 10 minutes. As the year progresses into November and December, UV levels drop slightly to very high, increasing the burn time to 15 minutes. It is crucial for both visitors and residents to take protective measures during these times, including wearing sunscreen, protective clothing, and seeking shade, especially during midday hours when the sunlight is most intense.
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 |
Esquipulas | 11 | 13 | 15 | 15 | 14 | 14 | 14 | 14 | 13 | 13 | 10 | 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 |