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UV Index in El Quetzal, Guatemala

Last updated: June 2, 2025

In El Quetzal, Guatemala, being aware of the UV Index is crucial for protecting your skin and overall health. With the region’s Aw climate, characterized by warm temperatures and high altitude, residents and visitors alike experience significant risks from UV radiation, especially during peak hours. Understanding UV levels is essential to prevent sunburn and long-term skin damage; for instance, during midday, the UV Index can soar to a striking 14, indicating very high exposure. By staying informed and taking proper precautions, you can enjoy the beautiful sunshine in El Quetzal while safeguarding your skin's health.

Hourly UV Index in El Quetzal

At dawn, the UV Index begins its climb, starting at a low 1 by 7:00 AM. As the day progresses, it swiftly escalates, reaching a peak of 14 by 12:00 PM, indicating a strong potential for skin damage without protection. The height of the sun brings a scorching 13 at 1:00 PM, followed by a slight dip to 10 by 2:00 PM. As afternoon fades into evening, the UV Index drops significantly, plummeting to 3 by 4:00 PM and settling back to a minimal 1 by 7:00 PM. The day's UV journey reflects the sun's relentless power, reminding us of the importance of safeguarding our skin 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.
TimeUVICategoryTime to Burn
07:001low45 min
08:004moderate30 min
09:007high25 min
10:0011extreme10 min
11:0013extreme10 min
12:0014extreme10 min
13:0013extreme10 min
14:0010very high15 min
15:007high25 min
16:003moderate30 min
17:001low45 min
18:001low45 min
19:000low45 min

Monthly UV Index Trends in El Quetzal

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 El Quetzal, Guatemala

The monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) represents the highest UV radiation level recorded each month in El Quetzal. It measures the strength of ultraviolet radiation from the sun and helps assess the risk of sunburn and UV-related health issues.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec11131415141414141413119
Data source: Statistical UV Index data for El Quetzal, 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 El Quetzal UV Index with Other Guatemala Cities

The table above highlights how UV exposure in El Quetzal 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.
El Quetzal's solar exposure compared to other cities in Guatemala. Generated using Copernicus Atmosphere Monitoring Service information.
 JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Petapa UVI111314151414141414131010
Villa Nueva UVI111314151414141414131010
El Quetzal11131415141414141413119
Mixco UVI111315151414141414131110
Guatemala City UVI111315151414141414131110
San Juan Sacatepequez UVI111315151414151414131110