UV Index in San Pablo, Guatemala

Last updated: August 1, 2025

In San Pablo, Guatemala, being aware of the UV Index is crucial for safeguarding your skin and overall health. Understanding UV levels not only helps prevent painful sunburns but also reduces the long-term risk of skin damage and conditions like skin cancer. Residents and visitors alike should take note of the region’s tropical climate, where UV exposure can peak at a staggering 15 around noon, signaling high risk during midday hours. With this knowledge, you can enjoy the beautiful sunny days of San Pablo while taking proactive steps to protect your skin from the harmful effects of the sun.

Hourly UV Index in San Pablo

The UV Index throughout the day showcases a dramatic rise and fall, peaking at an intense 15 at 12:00 PM. Starting from a mild 1 at 07:00 AM, the index steadily climbs, reaching 3 by 08:00 AM and soaring to 11 by 10:00 AM. It continues to escalate, hitting 14 at 11:00 AM, before its zenith at 12:00 PM. In the afternoon, the index gradually declines, dropping to 11 at 2:00 PM, then to 7 at 3:00 PM, and further down to 2 by 5:00 PM. Finally, the day concludes with a return to a safe 0 just before nightfall. This pattern underscores the necessity of sun protection during peak hours, particularly from 10 AM to 2 PM, when the UV exposure is most hazardous.

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	6	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	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 San Pablo

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 San Pablo, Guatemala

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

The table above highlights how UV exposure in San Pablo 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.

San Pablo'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
San Pablo	11	13	15	15	15	15	15	14	14	13	11	10