Last updated: June 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors in Guastatoya, Guatemala, where the high altitude and tropical climate contribute to significant UV exposure. Awareness of UV levels helps prevent sunburn and protects skin health, especially during peak hours when the index can soar to 14 – indicating extreme risk. With temperatures typically warm year-round, it's essential to stay informed about the daily UV Index to safeguard yourself from harmful effects of the sun. Be proactive and enjoy the vibrant outdoors while prioritizing your skin health!
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 |
Throughout the year, UV levels in the region consistently remain extreme, particularly from January to April, when the UV Index peaks at 15. During this period, the risk of sunburn is significantly high, with a burn time of only 10 minutes. May to October maintains a similarly high UV Index of 14, prompting continued caution. Conversely, the risk decreases slightly in November and December, with indexes of 10 and 9, respectively, categorized as very high; however, burn times extend to 15 minutes. Visitors and residents are strongly advised to take preventive measures year-round, such as using SPF 30 or higher, wearing protective clothing, and seeking shade to reduce the risk of UV exposure, especially during these high-risk months.
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 |
Guastatoya | 11 | 13 | 15 | 15 | 14 | 14 | 14 | 14 | 14 | 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 |