Last updated: June 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents of Estanzuela, Guatemala, where the sunny climate brings both warmth and potential risks. With UV levels peaking at a staggering 14 during midday, awareness of these levels is essential for preventing sunburn and protecting skin health. Prolonged exposure, especially during the highest UV ratings from 10 AM to 2 PM, can lead to serious skin damage and long-term health issues. By keeping an eye on the UV Index, residents can enjoy the beautiful tropical climate while safeguarding their well-being against the intense sun exposure typical of this vibrant region.
The UV Index today paints a vivid picture of sun intensity throughout the day. Early risers will experience a gentle start at 07:00 with a low of 2, slowly escalating to a more noticeable 4 by 08:00. As the sun climbs higher, the UV Index reaches a peak of 14 at 12:00—the critical midday moment when sun protection is essential. From there, it begins to taper off, dropping to 12 at 13:00 before plunging down to 1 by 17:00. As evening approaches, UV exposure decreases, ultimately settling at 0 by 19:00. Remember to stay sun-safe during those peak hours!
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 | 13 | extreme | 10 min |
12:00 | 14 | extreme | 10 min |
13:00 | 12 | extreme | 10 min |
14:00 | 9 | 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 shows significant seasonal changes, with the highest risk months occurring from March to October, when values consistently reach between 12 and 14, placing the exposure category at extreme. This means that any unprotected skin can burn in as little as 10 minutes during these months, highlighting the importance of protective measures. Conversely, January, November, and December experience a drop in the UV Index, classified as very high, with a burn time of 15 minutes. To ensure safety from harmful UV radiation, visitors and residents are strongly advised to apply sunscreen, seek shade, and wear protective clothing, particularly during the peak months of spring and summer when the risk is at its highest.
UV Risk Categories
Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Estanzuela | 10 | 12 | 14 | 14 | 14 | 14 | 14 | 14 | 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 |