UV Index in Catarina, Guatemala

Last updated: June 2, 2025

Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors in Catarina, Guatemala, where the Aw climate ensures plenty of sunshine throughout the year. As UV levels can soar to 14 during midday hours, awareness is essential for preventing sunburn and protecting skin health. The risks associated with high UV exposure are significant, especially between 10:00 AM and 2:00 PM, when UV radiation intensity peaks. By keeping an eye on the UV Index, you can enjoy the beautiful climate of Catarina while safeguarding your skin from harmful effects.

Hourly UV Index in Catarina

As the sun rises, the UV Index starts off low at 1 by 07:00, but quickly escalates as the day progresses. By 09:00, it reaches 7, signaling the need for protection. 10:00 marks the peak at an intense 10, followed closely by a striking 13 at 11:00. The UV rays hit their highest point at 12:00 with a staggering 14, urging everyone to take caution. The intensity begins to taper off in the early afternoon, dropping to 10 by 14:00, and easing further to 7 at 15:00. As the day wanes, the UV Index dips to 3 by 16:00, and then back to a safe 1 at 17:00 and 18:00, wrapping up as the sun sets with a 0 at 19:00. It's a clear reminder that when outdoors, sun safety is paramount during the midday 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	7	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 Catarina

The UV Index experiences significant seasonal fluctuations, peaking from February to September with consistently high levels categorized as extreme. During these months, the UV Index reaches up to 14, with a burn time of just 10 minutes, making it essential for visitors and residents to take precautionary measures, such as applying sunscreen and wearing protective clothing. January and November show a slight decrease, with a very high UV Index of 10, allowing for a longer burn time of 15 minutes. However, even in December and October, the UV Index remains considerable at 9 and 12, respectively. To ensure safety, it is advisable to limit sun exposure during the high-risk months of February through October, particularly between 10 AM and 4 PM, when UV radiation is at its strongest.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Catarina, Guatemala

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

The table above highlights how UV exposure in Catarina 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.

Catarina'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
Catarina	10	12	13	14	14	14	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