Last updated: August 1, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for anyone spending time in Tajumulco, Guatemala, especially in its Aw climate zone, known for its sunny days and high altitudes. With UV levels soaring as high as 15 during midday, awareness of these levels is essential to prevent sunburn and protect skin health. The intense sunlight typical of Tajumulco can lead to serious risks, making it vital to know when to seek shade or apply sunscreen. Stay informed and enjoy the beautiful outdoors safely!
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.
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 |
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 |
Tajumulco | 11 | 13 | 15 | 15 | 15 | 15 | 15 | 14 | 14 | 13 | 11 | 10 |