UV Index in Quetzaltenango, Guatemala

Last updated: August 1, 2025

In Quetzaltenango, Guatemala, being aware of the UV Index is crucial for protecting your skin and maintaining overall health. With UV levels peaking at a staggering 14 between 12 PM and 1 PM, understanding these measurements helps prevent sunburns and long-term skin damage. This charming city, situated in a Cwb climate zone, experiences relatively cool temperatures but can still pose significant UV exposure risks, especially during mid-day hours. By staying informed about the UV Index, you can enjoy the beauty of Quetzaltenango while safeguarding your skin from harmful rays.

Hourly UV Index in Quetzaltenango

The UV Index throughout the day presents a clear picture of sun exposure risks. Starting at 07:00, the index is a mere 1, suitable for most outdoor activities. However, by 08:00, it rises to 3, indicating a need for some sun protection. The peak occurs at 12:00 with a striking 14, signaling extreme exposure levels and a critical time to seek shade. After this zenith, the index gradually declines, dipping to 4 by 16:00 before falling back to 1 by 17:00. As the day winds down, the UV Index drops to 0 by 19:00, marking a safe return for evening outdoor plans. Be sun-smart and take necessary precautions during 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	1	low	45 min
08:00	3	moderate	30 min
09:00	6	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	7	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 Quetzaltenango

The UV Index in the region shows a marked seasonal increase from January through April, peaking at 15 in April, indicating an extreme exposure category with a burn time of only 10 minutes. From May to October, the index remains high at 14, continuing the extreme exposure risk. High-risk months for UV exposure are March through October, where visitors and residents should take precautionary measures as all fall within the extreme category. In November, the UV Index drops slightly to 11, and to 9 in December, categorizing the exposure as very high but with a slightly longer burn time of 15 minutes. It is strongly advised that individuals employ protective measures, such as wearing sunscreen, protective clothing, and seeking shade, particularly during these high-risk months to minimize the risk of skin damage.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Quetzaltenango, Guatemala

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

The table above highlights how UV exposure in Quetzaltenango 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.

Quetzaltenango'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
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
Quetzaltenango	11	13	14	15	14	14	14	14	14	13	11	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