Last updated: August 1, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is essential for residents and visitors of Santo Tomás La Unión, Guatemala, especially in its Cwb climate zone, where diverse weather patterns can lead to varying levels of UV exposure. With UV levels peaking around noon at a high of 14, it’s crucial to be aware of these indicators to prevent sunburn and protect skin health. Knowledge of UV levels helps individuals make informed decisions about sun safety, ensuring enjoyable outdoor activities without the risk of harmful effects from overexposure to the sun. Stay vigilant and informed—your skin will thank you!
The UV Index throughout the day presents a clear picture of sun exposure risks. Starting at 07:00, the index is a mere 1, suitable for most outdoor activities. However, by 08:00, it rises to 3, indicating a need for some sun protection. The peak occurs at 12:00 with a striking 14, signaling extreme exposure levels and a critical time to seek shade. After this zenith, the index gradually declines, dipping to 4 by 16:00 before falling back to 1 by 17:00. As the day winds down, the UV Index drops to 0 by 19:00, marking a safe return for evening outdoor plans. Be sun-smart and take necessary precautions during peak hours!
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 | 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 |
The UV Index in the region shows a marked seasonal increase from January through April, peaking at 15 in April, indicating an extreme exposure category with a burn time of only 10 minutes. From May to October, the index remains high at 14, continuing the extreme exposure risk. High-risk months for UV exposure are March through October, where visitors and residents should take precautionary measures as all fall within the extreme category. In November, the UV Index drops slightly to 11, and to 9 in December, categorizing the exposure as very high but with a slightly longer burn time of 15 minutes. It is strongly advised that individuals employ protective measures, such as wearing sunscreen, protective clothing, and seeking shade, particularly during these high-risk months to minimize the risk of skin damage.
UV Risk Categories
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 |
Santo Tomas La Union | 11 | 13 | 14 | 15 | 14 | 14 | 14 | 14 | 14 | 13 | 11 | 9 |
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 |