UV Index in San Jose, Guatemala

Last updated: June 2, 2025

Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors in San Jose, Guatemala, where the sunny climate can lead to elevated UV exposure levels that pose risks to skin health. With midday UV Index readings frequently peaking at 12 or higher, awareness of these levels is essential in preventing sunburn and long-term skin damage. By knowing when the UV radiation is at its strongest, you can take proactive steps to protect yourself, ensuring your outdoor activities remain safe and enjoyable while navigating the beautiful surroundings that San Jose has to offer. Stay informed and keep your skin safe!

Hourly UV Index in San Jose

The UV Index today displays a dynamic pattern, peaking at a striking 13 around 12:00 PM, signaling the strongest sun exposure of the day. Early risers will enjoy a low UV of just 2 at 7:00 AM, but as the sun ascends, the index climbs sharply, reaching 10 by 10:00 AM and hitting 12 at 11:00 AM. As the afternoon unfolds, it gradually dips to 9 at 2:00 PM and then decreases further to 6 by 3:00 PM. By the evening, the UV Index drops significantly, plummeting to 1 at both 4:00 PM and 5:00 PM, and falling to 0 by 7:00 PM. Stay safe and protect your skin during those 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	12	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 San Jose

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.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for San Jose, Guatemala

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

The table above highlights how UV exposure in San Jose 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.

San Jose'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
San Jose	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