Last updated: May 3, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors in Jalapa, Guatemala, as it plays a vital role in preventing sunburn and promoting skin health. This beautiful region, with its typically warm climate, can expose you to significant UV radiation, especially during peak hours. On sunny days, the UV levels can soar to a maximum of 14 around noon, highlighting the need for awareness and protective measures. By keeping track of the UV Index, you can better safeguard your skin and enjoy the vibrant outdoor lifestyle that Jalapa has to offer while minimizing the risks associated with excessive sun exposure.
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 |
Jalapa | 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 |