Last updated: July 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index in Usumatlan, Guatemala is crucial for anyone who enjoys the sun, particularly in this warm tropical climate. With UV levels peaking typically between 10 AM and 2 PM, awareness of these readings is vital for preventing sunburn and protecting your skin health. During these hours, the UV Index can reach extreme levels, spiking to 14, which poses significant risks even with minimal exposure. By keeping an eye on the UV Index, residents and visitors can take proactive measures to stay safe under the Guatemalan sun and enjoy the beautiful outdoors without compromising their wellness.
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!
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 |
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 | |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Usumatlan | 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 |