UV Index in Santa Cruz, Honduras

Last updated: July 2, 2025

Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors of Santa Cruz, Honduras. With its tropical climate and abundant sunshine, being aware of UV levels can make a significant difference in sunburn prevention and overall skin health. The region experiences peak UV exposure around midday, with indices soaring as high as 14, indicating extreme risk. By familiarizing yourself with the UV Index specifics for Santa Cruz, you can take proactive steps to protect yourself from harmful effects of UV radiation, ensuring your time in this beautiful locale is safe and enjoyable.

Hourly UV Index in Santa Cruz

At dawn, the UV Index starts softly at 2 by 07:00, suggesting a low risk for sun exposure. As the morning progresses, it escalates to 4 by 08:00 and reaches 7 at 09:00, indicating a moderate level of sun intensity. The day peaks with an impressive 14 at 12:00, where sun safety becomes crucial as the risk is rated high. Afternoon hours see a gradual decline from 13 at 13:00 down to 10 by 14:00, before dropping further to 6 at 15:00. As the sun begins to set, the UV Index dwindles to 3 by 16:00, and finally settles at 1 by 17:00 and 18:00, with a complete drop to 0 by 19:00, signaling that the sun's rays are no longer a concern. Always remember to protect your skin during those high UV periods!

Average solar exposure data for the current time of the year. Actual values may vary and depend on many factors, such as cloud cover, vegetation cover, surface type, etc.
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	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

Monthly UV Index Trends in Santa Cruz

Throughout the year, UVA levels display pronounced seasonal variability, with January to September marked by an extreme UV Index, peaking in April at 15. During this period, burn time is critically short at just 10 minutes, highlighting the increased risk of skin damage during the high-risk months from February to April. Following this peak, UV levels gradually decrease but remain extreme through much of the summer, before tapering off to very high levels in November and December. For both visitors and residents, it is crucial to practice sun safety, especially during the spring and summer months. Sunscreen application, protective clothing, and seeking shade are essential strategies to reduce the risk of harmful UV exposure during these high-risk seasons.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Santa Cruz, Honduras

The monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) represents the highest UV radiation level recorded each month in Santa Cruz. It measures the strength of ultraviolet radiation from the sun and helps assess the risk of sunburn and UV-related health issues.

Data source: Statistical UV Index data for Santa Cruz, based on information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

UV Risk Categories

Extreme (11+): Avoid the sun, stay in shade.
Very High (8-10): Limit sun exposure.
High (6-7): Use SPF 30+ and protective clothing.
Moderate (3-5): Midday shade recommended.
Low (0-2): No protection needed.

Compare Santa Cruz UV Index with Other Honduras Cities

The table above highlights how UV exposure in Santa Cruz compares to other major locations across Honduras. This comparison helps travelers and residents better understand regional sun intensity and plan outdoor activities with sun safety in mind.

Santa Cruz's solar exposure compared to other cities in Honduras. Generated using Copernicus Atmosphere Monitoring Service information.
	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Choloma UVI	10	11	13	14	13	13	13	13	13	12	9	9
San Pedro Sula UVI	10	11	13	14	13	13	13	13	13	12	9	9
El Progreso UVI	10	12	13	14	13	13	13	13	13	12	10	9
La Ceiba UVI	10	12	14	14	14	14	14	14	13	12	10	9
Santa Cruz	11	13	14	15	14	14	14	14	13	13	10	9
Tegucigalpa UVI	11	13	15	15	14	14	14	14	14	13	10	10