UV Index in Malacatan, Guatemala

Last updated: May 3, 2025

Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors in Malacatan, Guatemala, where the sun reigns supreme in its Aw climate zone. High UV levels can lead to severe sunburn, long-term skin damage, and increased risk of skin cancer, making it essential for everyone to be aware of daily fluctuations in UV radiation. With peak UV Index levels soaring as high as 15 between noon and 1 PM, it’s important to take protective measures, especially during the hottest hours of the day. Knowing the UV Index not only helps in safeguarding your skin health but also encourages outdoor activities in a more informed and cautious manner.

Hourly UV Index in Malacatan

The UV Index data reveals a dramatic rise in sun exposure as the day progresses. Starting at a gentle 1 at 07:00, the index swiftly escalates to reach a peak of 15 by 12:00, indicating a very high risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure. The afternoon retains an impressive 14 at 11:00, before gradually declining to 7 by 15:00. As the sun sets, the index drops sharply, ending the day at a safe 0 by 19:00. It's crucial to stay sun-safe during those peak hours, particularly between 10:00 and 14:00, when the sun's intensity is at its highest.

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	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	13	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

Monthly UV Index Trends in Malacatan

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.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Malacatan, Guatemala

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

The table above highlights how UV exposure in Malacatan 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.

Malacatan'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
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
Malacatan	11	13	15	15	15	15	15	14	14	13	11	10