UV Index in Union, Guatemala

Last updated: August 1, 2025

In Union, Guatemala, staying informed about the UV Index is crucial for protecting your skin and overall health. Understanding UV levels helps you take proactive steps against sunburn and long-term skin damage, which is especially important in this region's unique climate characterized by its tropical highland conditions. With UV readings peaking at a staggering 15 around noon, it's essential to be aware of the risks associated with high UV exposure. By knowing when to seek shade or apply sunscreen, you can enjoy the beautiful sunshine of Union while keeping your skin safe and healthy.

Hourly UV Index in Union

The UV Index throughout the day showcases a dramatic rise and fall, peaking at an intense 15 at 12:00 PM. Starting from a mild 1 at 07:00 AM, the index steadily climbs, reaching 3 by 08:00 AM and soaring to 11 by 10:00 AM. It continues to escalate, hitting 14 at 11:00 AM, before its zenith at 12:00 PM. In the afternoon, the index gradually declines, dropping to 11 at 2:00 PM, then to 7 at 3:00 PM, and further down to 2 by 5:00 PM. Finally, the day concludes with a return to a safe 0 just before nightfall. This pattern underscores the necessity of sun protection during peak hours, particularly from 10 AM to 2 PM, when the UV exposure is most hazardous.

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	6	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	4	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 Union

During the year, UV Index levels indicate a significant fluctuation in UV exposure, with high-risk months clearly spanning from January to October, where the index ranges from 11 to 15, categorized as extreme exposure with a burn time of just 10 minutes. April, May, and July are particularly noteworthy, consistently hitting a peak index of 15. As we transition to November, the index decreases to 11, and by December, it drops to 9, signifying a shift to very high exposure with a slightly longer burn time of 15 minutes. Visitors and residents are strongly encouraged to take precautionary measures, including wearing protective clothing, applying sunscreen, and limiting sun exposure during these high-risk months to mitigate the dangers of prolonged UV exposure.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Union, Guatemala

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

The table above highlights how UV exposure in Union 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.

Union'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
Union	11	13	14	15	15	14	15	14	14	13	11	9
San Juan Sacatepequez UVI	11	13	15	15	14	14	15	14	14	13	11	10