UV Index in Chicacao, Guatemala

Last updated: May 3, 2025

Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors in Chicacao, Guatemala, where the tropical Aw climate brings with it heightened exposure to harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays. With UV levels peaking at a staggering 14 around midday, awareness is essential to prevent sunburn and safeguard skin health. By recognizing these UV levels and taking appropriate precautions, you can enjoy the sun while minimizing risks associated with excessive exposure. Keep in mind that even on seemingly mild days, the sun can pose significant threats to your skin, making it vital to stay informed about local UV conditions.

Hourly UV Index in Chicacao

The UV Index tells a compelling story throughout the day, starting off with a gentle 1 at 7:00 AM. As the sun ascends, it charges up rapidly, reaching a moderate 4 by 8:00 AM. The intensity peaks at 12:00 PM with an intense 14, suggesting that this is the time to seek shade and take precautions against sunburn. The index gradually declines thereafter, dropping to 6 by 3:00 PM, and further down to a safe 1 at 5:00 PM. As evening sets in, the UV rays diminish, leaving a 0 at 7:00 PM. It's clear: the midday hours are when the sun is most powerful, so plan accordingly to protect your skin!

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	1	low	45 min
08:00	4	moderate	30 min
09:00	7	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	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

Monthly UV Index Trends in Chicacao

The UV Index throughout the year shows notable seasonal changes, with extreme levels prevalent from January to October. High-risk months include March, April, and May, where the UV Index peaks at 14, making burn time just 10 minutes. As the year progresses, the UV Index gradually declines in November and December to 10 and 9 respectively, categorized as very high with a burn time of 15 minutes. Visitors and residents are strongly advised to take precautionary measures during these high-risk months by wearing protective clothing, applying broad-spectrum sunscreen, and seeking shade during peak sun hours to minimize skin damage.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Chicacao, Guatemala

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

The table above highlights how UV exposure in Chicacao 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.

Chicacao'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
Chicacao	11	12	14	14	14	14	13	13	13	12	10	9
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