UV Index in Puerto Barrios, Guatemala

Last updated: June 2, 2025

In Puerto Barrios, Guatemala, being aware of the UV Index is crucial for safeguarding your skin against harmful solar radiation. Understanding the daily UV levels not only helps in preventing painful sunburns but also plays a significant role in maintaining long-term skin health. With a tropical climate characterized by constant sunshine, residents and visitors alike face heightened UV exposure risks, particularly during peak hours when the index can soar to 13. By staying informed about the UV Index, you can take proactive measures to protect yourself and enjoy the beautiful weather this vibrant coastal town has to offer!

Hourly UV Index in Puerto Barrios

The UV Index throughout the day showcases a striking pattern of intensity, peaking sharply around 11:00 AM and 12:00 PM with a robust 13, signaling a high risk for sun exposure during these hours. Early morning starts gently at 2 at 7:00 AM, then steadily climbs, passing through moderate levels at 8:00 AM and 9:00 AM, before reaching a critical point with a 10 at 10:00 AM. Post-noon, the index gradually declines, dropping to 6 by 3:00 PM and further to a much safer 1 by the evening at 5:00 PM and 6:00 PM, where it ultimately settles at 0 by nightfall. To enjoy the sun while protecting your skin, plan outdoor activities early or enjoy them after the peak hours!

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	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	13	extreme	10 min
13:00	12	extreme	10 min
14:00	9	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

Monthly UV Index Trends in Puerto Barrios

The UV Index demonstrates significant seasonal fluctuations, with January showing a UV Index of 10 and moving up to a peak of 14 in April. The high-risk months are clearly identified from February through October, where the UV Index reaches 12 or higher, categorizing exposure as extreme. Burn times are notably short, often just 10 minutes during these peak months, so visitors and residents should exercise caution. To mitigate potential skin damage, it is advisable to wear protective clothing, apply broad-spectrum sunscreen, and seek shade, especially during midday hours when the sun is strongest. As November and December approach, the risk decreases slightly, but vigilance remains crucial during these transitional months.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Puerto Barrios, Guatemala

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

The table above highlights how UV exposure in Puerto Barrios 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.

Puerto Barrios'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
Puerto Barrios	10	12	13	14	13	13	13	13	13	12	10	9
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