Last updated: May 3, 2025
Understanding the UV Index in El Zapote, Honduras is crucial for safeguarding your skin and overall health. As residents and visitors enjoy the region's warm, tropical climate, it’s essential to be aware of the changing levels of ultraviolet radiation throughout the day. High UV readings, peaking at a staggering 14 between 11:00 AM and 12:00 PM, can lead to sunburn and increase the risk of skin cancer if proper precautions aren't taken. By monitoring the UV Index, you can make informed decisions about sun exposure and protect your skin from harmful effects, ensuring you enjoy the vibrant outdoor lifestyle El Zapote has to offer while prioritizing your well-being.
The UV Index throughout the day exhibits a clear peak in the late morning, with values surging to a maximum of 14 at both 11:00 and 12:00. As the sun rises higher in the sky, the intensity of UV radiation builds rapidly, climbing from 2 at 07:00 to an impressive 11 by 10:00. After noon, however, the index begins a gradual decline, dropping to 12 at 13:00 before easing further to 5 by 15:00. As the day winds down, UV levels diminish significantly, ultimately reaching a low of 0 by 19:00. It serves as a reminder to embrace sun safety during the peak hours!
| Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 08:00 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
| 09:00 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
| 10:00 | 11 | extreme | 10 min |
| 11:00 | 14 | extreme | 10 min |
| 12:00 | 14 | extreme | 10 min |
| 13:00 | 12 | extreme | 10 min |
| 14:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 15:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 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 exhibits significant seasonal changes, with January starting at a UV Index of 10 (very high) and gradually escalating to a peak of 14 (extreme) from March through August. The high-risk months for UV exposure are clearly identified from February to September, where the UV Index remains consistently extreme, particularly in the summer months. During this time, the advised burn time is as low as 10 minutes, necessitating diligent sun protection measures. As autumn approaches, the UV Index declines, dropping to 13 in September and October, and to 10 in November, before settling at 9 in December, indicating very high exposure risks. Residents and visitors should be extra cautious during high-risk months by seeking shade, wearing protective clothing, and applying sunscreen frequently to minimize skin damage from UV radiation.
UV Risk Categories
| 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 |
| El Zapote | 10 | 12 | 14 | 14 | 14 | 14 | 14 | 14 | 13 | 13 | 10 | 9 |
| Tegucigalpa UVI | 11 | 13 | 15 | 15 | 14 | 14 | 14 | 14 | 14 | 13 | 10 | 10 |