Last updated: June 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents of San Gabriel, Guatemala, where the sun's rays can be particularly intense due to the region's tropical climate. With peak UV levels reaching as high as 13 around midday, awareness of these metrics is vital for preventing sunburn and protecting skin health. Knowing when to seek shade or apply sunscreen can safeguard against the harmful effects of UV radiation, ensuring that you enjoy the beautiful San Gabriel scenery without compromising your well-being. Stay informed and stay safe under the Guatemalan sun!
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 Gabriel | 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 |