Last updated: June 2, 2025
In Santa Ana, Guatemala, awareness of the UV Index is crucial to safeguarding your skin from harmful solar radiation. With high UV levels peaking at 12 around noon, understanding these fluctuations can help prevent sunburn and long-term skin damage. The region's tropical climate brings about intense sun exposure, particularly during the dry season, increasing the risks associated with UV rays. By staying informed about the UV Index, you can take proactive steps to protect yourself and enjoy the beautiful sunshine in Santa Ana responsibly.
As the sun rises, the UV Index begins its ascent, peaking at 13 around noon, making it a crucial time for sun safety. Starting at a modest 2 at 7:00 AM, the index steadily climbs, hitting 4 by 8:00 AM, and then surging to 10 at 10:00 AM. The intensity peaks at 12:00 PM, marked by a high of 13, before gradually declining to 6 by 3:00 PM. As the afternoon wanes, the values drop further, ending the day at a safe 0 by 7:00 PM. It’s clear that midday is the time to be sun-smart and protect your skin!
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 | 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 index levels exhibit significant seasonal variation, with March through October being particularly concerning. The highest risk months occur from February to October, where the UV Index peaks at 14 in April, indicating an extreme exposure category with a minimal burn time of just 10 minutes. Residents and visitors should take precautions during these months by wearing protective clothing, applying sunscreen regularly, and limiting sun exposure during peak hours. Conversely, the UV Index decreases to very high levels during January, November, and December, where the burn time extends slightly to 15 minutes. Overall, vigilance is essential year-round, but especially so when the UV Index reaches extreme levels in the spring and summer months.
UV Risk Categories
Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Santa Ana | 9 | 11 | 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 |