Last updated: July 2, 2025
In San Luis Jilotepeque, Guatemala, understanding the UV Index is essential for protecting your skin from harmful ultraviolet rays. With the region's Aw climate characterized by warm temperatures and high sun exposure, awareness of UV levels can significantly aid in sunburn prevention and overall skin health. As the day progresses, UV levels can reach alarming heights—peaking at 14 between noon and 1 PM—making it crucial for residents and visitors alike to stay informed. So, whether you're enjoying outdoor activities or simply soaking in the beauty of this vibrant town, staying alert to the UV Index can ensure a safer and healthier experience under the sun.
The UV Index tells a compelling story throughout the day, starting off with a gentle 1 at 7:00 AM. As the sun ascends, it charges up rapidly, reaching a moderate 4 by 8:00 AM. The intensity peaks at 12:00 PM with an intense 14, suggesting that this is the time to seek shade and take precautions against sunburn. The index gradually declines thereafter, dropping to 6 by 3:00 PM, and further down to a safe 1 at 5:00 PM. As evening sets in, the UV rays diminish, leaving a 0 at 7:00 PM. It's clear: the midday hours are when the sun is most powerful, so plan accordingly to protect your skin!
| Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07:00 | 1 | 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 | 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, UVA levels display pronounced seasonal variability, with January to September marked by an extreme UV Index, peaking in April at 15. During this period, burn time is critically short at just 10 minutes, highlighting the increased risk of skin damage during the high-risk months from February to April. Following this peak, UV levels gradually decrease but remain extreme through much of the summer, before tapering off to very high levels in November and December. For both visitors and residents, it is crucial to practice sun safety, especially during the spring and summer months. Sunscreen application, protective clothing, and seeking shade are essential strategies to reduce the risk of harmful UV exposure during these high-risk seasons.
UV Risk Categories
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| San Luis Jilotepeque | 11 | 13 | 14 | 15 | 14 | 14 | 14 | 14 | 13 | 13 | 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 |