Last updated: June 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents of Cuilapa, Guatemala, where the sun's rays can be intense due to its tropical climate. With UV levels often peaking around noon with a high of 14, awareness of these fluctuations is essential for preventing sunburn and safeguarding skin health. As you step outside, knowing the UV Index can help you take necessary precautions against overexposure and its harmful effects. In this vibrant locale, where outdoor activities abound, understanding UV exposure risks empowers you to enjoy the sunshine safely while protecting your skin from its damaging effects.
The UV Index today showcases a dramatic rise in solar intensity, starting with a moderate level of 2 at 7:00 AM. As the sun climbs higher in the sky, the intensity peaks at a staggering 14 by noon, marking the most hazardous time for sun exposure. It reaches a maximum of 13 at 1:00 PM, emphasizing the need for protective measures like sunscreen and hats. The afternoon sees a swift decline, dropping to 10 by 2:00 PM and further down to 6 at 3:00 PM. As evening approaches, the UV Index dips to 1 by 5:00 PM, offering some relief, before finally settling at 0 after 7:00 PM. For those planning their day, early morning and late evening provide a safer window for outdoor activities, while midday requires caution to avoid overexposure.
Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
---|---|---|---|
07:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
08:00 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
09:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
10:00 | 11 | extreme | 10 min |
11:00 | 13 | extreme | 10 min |
12:00 | 14 | extreme | 10 min |
13:00 | 13 | extreme | 10 min |
14:00 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
15:00 | 6 | high | 25 min |
16:00 | 3 | 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 experiences significant fluctuations, particularly peaking from January to April, where it reaches extreme levels of 11 to 15. These months are classified as high-risk, urging both visitors and residents to take extra precautions, as the burn time is just 10 minutes under direct sun exposure. As we move into November and December, the index dips slightly to 10, still classified as very high, but with a slightly longer burn time of 15 minutes. It’s crucial for everyone to incorporate protective measures such as sunscreen, hats, and protective clothing, especially during the high-risk months when the sun’s intensity can lead to skin damage in a short period.
UV Risk Categories
Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Cuilapa | 11 | 13 | 14 | 15 | 14 | 14 | 14 | 14 | 14 | 13 | 10 | 10 |
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 |