Last updated: May 3, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors of San Benito, Guatemala, where the warm Am climate brings both sunshine and potential sunburn risks year-round. Awareness of UV levels is essential not only for preventing painful sunburn but also for protecting skin health in the long run, as prolonged exposure can lead to serious skin conditions. Typically soaring to a peak of 13 during midday hours, the UV Index in San Benito underscores the importance of proper sun protection strategies, such as seeking shade, wearing protective clothing, and applying sunscreen, especially during the peak hours of 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM. Stay informed and enjoy the beautiful weather while keeping your skin safe!
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!
| 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 |
Throughout the year, UV index values exhibit significant seasonal variation, with the highest risks occurring from February to October. During these months, the UV index typically ranges from 11 to 14, categorized as extreme and necessitating minimal burn times of only 10 minutes. Specifically, April emerges as the peak month with a UV index of 14. Conversely, January, November, and December present lower UV levels, classified as very high, allowing for longer burn times of 15 minutes. Residents and visitors are advised to exercise caution, including wearing protective clothing, using sunscreen, and limiting sun exposure during these high-risk months to safeguard against skin damage.
UV Risk Categories
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| San Benito | 9 | 11 | 13 | 14 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 12 | 10 | 8 |
| 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 |