Last updated: May 3, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors in San Cristobal Cucho, Guatemala, where the sun's intensity can pose significant risks throughout the day. In this Aw climate zone, the UV levels can soar, reaching a peak of 15 around noon—an indicator that precautions are essential to avoid sunburn and protect skin health. By being aware of UV Index readings, you can better plan outdoor activities, keeping harmful exposure at bay and maintaining your well-being under the brilliant Guatemalan sun. Stay informed and enjoy the beauty of San Cristobal Cucho while safeguarding your skin!
At sunrise, the UV Index begins at a modest 2 at 7:00 AM, gradually climbing as the day unfolds. By 8:00 AM, it reaches 4, signaling an increase in sun exposure. As the sun ascends, the intensity soars, peaking at a remarkable 15 by noon. This is the time to take precautions! The afternoon sees a slight decline, with values tapering to 11 by 2:00 PM and then descending further to 7 at 3:00 PM. As evening approaches, the index drops swiftly, hitting 1 by 5:00 PM and fading to 0 by 7:00 PM, marking the end of a vibrant day under the sun. Don't forget to protect your skin during those peak hours!
| Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 08:00 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
| 09:00 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
| 10:00 | 11 | extreme | 10 min |
| 11:00 | 14 | 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 data presents a notable trend of consistently high UV levels from January through November, classified as “extreme.” The month of March peaks with an index of 16, followed closely by April and July, while February is slightly higher at 14. Visitors and residents should be particularly vigilant during these high-risk months, as the burn time is a mere 10 minutes across most months, emphasizing the need for sun protection such as sunscreen, hats, and protective clothing when outdoors. As the year progresses into December, there is a slight reduction in UV exposure, decreasing to a very high level with a burn time of 15 minutes. It’s crucial for everyone to remain aware of the high UV index and take appropriate precautions year-round to safeguard against harmful sun exposure.
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 |
| San Cristobal Cucho | 12 | 14 | 16 | 16 | 15 | 15 | 16 | 15 | 14 | 14 | 11 | 10 |