Last updated: July 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors of Uspantán, Guatemala, especially given the region's Cwb climate with its altitudinal effects on solar radiation. As UV levels can reach a maximum of 15—particularly during midday—being aware of these levels can help prevent sunburns and protect your skin health. With typical exposure risks peaking from 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM, knowing the UV index empowers you to take necessary precautions, ensuring you enjoy the outdoors safely while keeping harmful solar radiation at bay.
The UV Index for the day reveals a dramatic peak in solar intensity. Starting early, the day begins with a mild UV Index of 1 at 7:00 AM, gradually rising to a moderate 4 by 8:00 AM. As the sun ascends, 9:00 AM ushers in a surge to 7, but the real intensity hits at 10:00 AM, soaring to a critical 11. This trend continues, peaking at an impressive 15 by noon, a time when sun protection becomes essential. The afternoon sees the index slightly decline, with values of 14 at 1:00 PM and 11 at 2:00 PM, before tapering off to 7 at 3:00 PM. As the sun begins its descent, the index falls to 4 by 4:00 PM and diminishes further to 1 by 7:00 PM, ultimately dropping to a safe 0 after 8:00 PM. Stay vigilant during peak hours to enjoy the sun safely!
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 | 13 | 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 |
The UV Index exhibits significant seasonal variations, with peak values occurring from February through July, where it consistently reaches an extreme level of 13-15. This indicates that the months of March, April, July, and May are particularly high-risk for UV exposure, with a burn time of just 10 minutes. As residents and visitors plan outdoor activities, it is crucial to exercise extra caution during these months by using sunscreen, wearing protective clothing, and seeking shade whenever possible. Even in the fall and winter months, UV levels remain very high, so maintaining sun safety practices year-round is advisable.
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 |
Uspantan | 11 | 13 | 15 | 15 | 14 | 14 | 15 | 14 | 14 | 13 | 11 | 10 |