Last updated: May 3, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors of San Rafael Pie de la Cuesta, Guatemala, where the sun’s rays can be particularly intense. With the region's tropical climate and a peak UV Index often reaching as high as 15, being aware of UV levels helps in effectively preventing sunburn and protecting skin health. Armed with this knowledge, locals and tourists alike can take proactive measures during the most hazardous hours—typically between 10 AM and 2 PM—to enjoy the beautiful outdoors while safeguarding their skin from harmful effects.
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.
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 |
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.
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 Rafael Pie de la Cuesta | 11 | 13 | 15 | 15 | 15 | 15 | 15 | 14 | 14 | 13 | 11 | 10 |