Last updated: May 3, 2025
In San Mateo Ixtatan, Guatemala, being aware of the UV Index is crucial for protecting your skin and overall health. Understanding the daily UV levels helps residents and visitors alike to prevent sunburn and long-term skin damage, making it essential for outdoor activities. Nestled in a Cwb climate zone, this vibrant town experiences significant UV exposure, particularly during peak hours from 10 AM to 2 PM, where the index can soar to an alarming 15. By staying informed about the UV Index, you can enjoy the beautiful surroundings while minimizing the risks associated with high UV radiation.
As the sun rises, the UV Index begins its ascent, starting at a modest 2 at 7:00 AM. By 8:00 AM, it reaches 4, signaling the start of a sunnier day. The real intensity kicks in at 9:00 AM, where it skyrockets to 7, and by 10:00 AM, it hits a powerful 11. The peak occurs at 12:00 PM with a staggering 15, emphasizing the need for sun protection during these critical midday hours. As the afternoon progresses, the index gradually declines, dropping to 11 by 2:00 PM, and further down to 4 by 4:00 PM. Finally, as the sun sets, the UV Index dwindles to 1 at 5:00 PM, before fading to 0 by 7:00 PM. It’s a vibrant reminder of the sun's powerful rays, urging us to stay vigilant and protect our skin during those peak hours!
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 | 14 | extreme | 10 min |
12:00 | 15 | extreme | 10 min |
13:00 | 14 | extreme | 10 min |
14:00 | 11 | extreme | 10 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 |
The UV Index varies throughout the year, peaking from March to October with values consistently marked as extreme. The highest levels occur in April with an index of 16, while January and December experience lower indices of 11 and 10, respectively, categorized as very high. Notably, the high-risk months for UV exposure are February through October, during which visitors and residents should take precautions seriously as the burn time at these levels is only 10 minutes. It is essential for individuals to wear sunscreen, protective clothing, and seek shade during peak sunlight hours to minimize the risk of skin damage. As the UV Index decreases in November and December, vigilance should still be retained, especially since burn times are still within a hazardous range.
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 |
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 |
San Mateo Ixtatan | 11 | 13 | 15 | 16 | 15 | 15 | 15 | 15 | 15 | 13 | 11 | 10 |