Last updated: July 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is essential for residents and visitors of San Juan Cotzal, Guatemala, where the high-altitude climate presents unique sun exposure risks. With UV levels peaking dramatically in the late morning to early afternoon—reaching an intense 15 at noon—it's crucial to be aware of these fluctuations to prevent sunburn and safeguard your skin health. Given San Juan Cotzal's Cwb climate, characterized by its cool temperatures and direct sunlight, knowledge of UV Index readings can help you enjoy the outdoors safely while minimizing the potential for harmful effects from prolonged sun exposure. Stay informed, and take the necessary precautions to protect yourself under the Guatemalan sun!
The UV Index reveals a dramatic rise in solar intensity throughout the morning, starting at a modest 1 at 07:00. As the day progresses, the index climbs steeply, peaking at an intense 15 by noon, exposing the midday sun's powerful rays. This peak is followed by a slight decline, with values dropping to 11 at 14:00, then tapering off to 7 by 15:00. As evening sets in, the index weakens, falling back to 1 by 17:00 and eventually reaching 0 by 19:00, signaling a conclusion to the sun's harmful effects. Be sure to protect yourself during those peak hours!
| 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 | 11 | extreme | 10 min |
| 11:00 | 14 | extreme | 10 min |
| 12:00 | 15 | extreme | 10 min |
| 13:00 | 14 | extreme | 10 min |
| 14:00 | 11 | extreme | 10 min |
| 15:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 16:00 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
| 17:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 18:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 19:00 | 0 | low | 45 min |
Throughout the year, the UV Index in this region exhibits significant seasonal changes, with high-risk months predominantly from January to October. Notably, from March to June, the UV Index peaks at 15, categorized as extreme, signifying that unprotected skin can burn in as little as 10 minutes. February and March see the highest readings—reaching 13 and 15, respectively—while August and September maintain a high index at 14. As a result, it is crucial for visitors and residents to take adequate precautions during these months, such as wearing sunscreen, protective clothing, and seeking shade, especially during midday hours when UV exposure is most intense. In contrast, while December presents a slightly lower risk with a UV Index of 10, it is still advisable to remain vigilant.
UV Risk Categories
| 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 |
| 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 |
| San Juan Cotzal | 11 | 13 | 15 | 15 | 15 | 15 | 15 | 14 | 14 | 13 | 11 | 10 |