Last updated: June 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors in San Antonio Suchitepequez, Guatemala, where the warm Aw climate intensifies sun exposure risks throughout the day. With UV levels peaking at a staggering 13 during midday hours, being aware of these levels can significantly impact your skin health and help prevent painful sunburns. At times like 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM, the sun’s rays are particularly strong, making it essential to protect yourself and stay informed about UV risks to enjoy the beautiful weather safely. Keep an eye on the UV Index to ensure you're taking the necessary precautions against harmful exposure while relishing the vibrant outdoor life San Antonio has to offer!
As the sun rises, the UV Index begins its ascent, starting with a mild level of 1 at 07:00. By 08:00, it climbs to 3, signifying a gradual increase in sun intensity. The solar intensity peaks sharply from 09:00 onward, reaching its maximum of 13 by noon, a reminder for everyone to seek shade and protect their skin during this critical time. The index remains high through the early afternoon before tapering off, falling to 10 at 14:00 and gradually descending to 6 at 15:00 and then dropping further as the sun sets, with values receding to 1 by 17:00 and 0 by 19:00. This hourly UV data highlights the importance of sun safety during midday, ensuring you enjoy the outdoors while protecting your skin!
| Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 08:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 09:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 10:00 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
| 11:00 | 13 | extreme | 10 min |
| 12:00 | 13 | 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 in this region exhibits significant seasonal variations, peaking from January to September, where it reaches extreme levels. The highest UV Index of 14 occurs in April, signaling a critical period for sun exposure. February through September are identified as high-risk months, with consistently extreme levels and a burn time as short as 10 minutes. In contrast, November and December see a drop to a very high UV Index of 9, allowing for a slightly longer safe exposure time of 15 minutes. Visitors and residents are advised to take precautionary measures during these peak months, such as wearing protective clothing, using high-SPF sunscreen, and seeking shade during midday hours to minimize the risk of harmful UV exposure.
UV Risk Categories
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| San Antonio Suchitepequez | 10 | 11 | 13 | 14 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 12 | 13 | 12 | 9 | 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 |