Last updated: July 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors of Santiago Sacatepequez, Guatemala, particularly given the region's Cwb climate, which presents unique challenges for sun exposure. The UV levels here can reach a peak of 15 around noon, highlighting the importance of being informed about daily UV fluctuations to protect against sunburn and long-term skin health issues. With exposure risks varying throughout the day, knowing the UV Index empowers you to take proactive measures when enjoying the beautiful outdoors of Santiago Sacatepequez, ensuring you and your loved ones stay safe under the sun.
The UV Index for the day exhibits a dramatic rise as the sun climbs higher in the sky. Starting at a modest 1 at 07:00, the intensity escalates rapidly, peaking at an impressive 15 at 12:00. From there, the UV Index remains significantly high, hovering at 14 until 13:00. A gradual decline follows, bringing it down to 7 by 15:00 and continuing to drop to 1 by 17:00. As twilight approaches, the UV Index finishes the day at 0 by 19:00, signaling a significant decrease in skin-damaging rays. This pattern highlights the importance of sun protection during the midday hours when the UV levels are at their most intense.
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 | 10 | very high | 15 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 |
Santiago Sacatepequez | 11 | 13 | 15 | 15 | 14 | 14 | 15 | 14 | 14 | 13 | 11 | 10 |
San Juan Sacatepequez UVI | 11 | 13 | 15 | 15 | 14 | 14 | 15 | 14 | 14 | 13 | 11 | 10 |