UV Index in Santiago Atitlan, Guatemala

Last updated: May 3, 2025

Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors of Santiago Atitlan, Guatemala, where the high altitude and tropical climate can lead to significant sun exposure. With UV levels peaking at an alarming 15 around noon, being aware of these fluctuations is key to preventing sunburn and promoting overall skin health. This picturesque town, nestled by the stunning Lake Atitlan, experiences a unique Cwb climate, offering beautiful sunny days but also heightened risks for those unprepared. Taking steps to understand and monitor the UV Index can help everyone enjoy the sun safely while protecting their skin from harmful rays.

Hourly UV Index in Santiago Atitlan

The UV Index data presents a compelling picture of daily sun intensity. Starting off the day at a mild 2 at 7:00 AM, it quickly ramps up, hitting 4 by 8:00 AM. The sun’s strength peaks spectacularly at 15 around 12:00 PM, making it essential to seek shade or apply sunscreen. A gradual decline begins after this peak, dropping to 10 at 2:00 PM and tapering off to 1 by 5:00 PM. Finally, UV exposure drops to 0 by 7:00 PM, signaling a safe end to outdoor activities. Plan your day wisely to protect your skin during those midday hours!

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	2	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	10	very high	15 min
15:00	7	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

Monthly UV Index Trends in Santiago Atitlan

The UV Index data indicates a consistent period of extreme UV exposure from January through October, with values peaking at 16 in April. Notably, high-risk months for skin damage are from February to May, corresponding with some of the highest UV readings. In these months, individuals should be particularly cautious, as the burn time is only 10 minutes across all cases during this time. As the summer months progress, while the UV Index remains elevated, there is a slight decrease, with August to October recording values between 14 and 15. Visitors and residents are strongly advised to take proactive measures, including wearing sunscreen, protective clothing, and limiting sun exposure, especially during peak hours, to mitigate the risks associated with these extreme UV levels. As December approaches, while the UV Index decreases slightly to 10, the burn time increases to 15 minutes, indicating a marginally lower risk but still necessitating sun protection practices.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Santiago Atitlan, Guatemala

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

The table above highlights how UV exposure in Santiago Atitlan 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.

Santiago Atitlan'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
Santiago Atitlan	11	13	15	16	15	15	15	14	14	14	11	10