Last updated: August 1, 2025
Awareness of the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors of Santa Maria Ixhuatan, Guatemala, where the tropical climate and high altitude contribute to significant sun exposure. Understanding UV levels is essential for preventing sunburn and maintaining long-term skin health, especially during peak hours when the UV Index can soar to a dangerous 14. With typical readings climbing from 1 at sunrise to a staggering 13 midday, it's vital to take protective measures against harmful rays. Stay informed and protected to fully enjoy the vibrant beauty of this stunning region while keeping your skin safe from UV damage.
Experience the day's UV Index journey, starting at a gentle 1 at 7:00 AM, gradually climbing to a peak of 14 by noon. As the sun reaches its zenith, the UV intensity intensifies, with maximum levels recorded at 11:00 AM and 12:00 PM. The UV Index begins to taper off after 1:00 PM, dropping to 10 by 2:00 PM. As afternoon turns to evening, the levels decrease further, settling back to a safe 1 by 5:00 PM. With a final dip to 0 by 7:00 PM, the day's UV exposure concludes, reminding us of the sun's powerful influence in the midday hours. Stay protected!
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 | 12 | 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 | |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Santa Maria Ixhuatan | 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 |