UV Index in San Marcos, Nicaragua

Last updated: June 2, 2025

Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors in San Marcos, Nicaragua, as it provides vital information about UV radiation levels throughout the day. Monitoring these levels is essential for preventing sunburn and protecting overall skin health, especially in a region characterized by its tropical climate and high UV exposure risks. With the UV Index peaking at 14 during midday, it's important to stay informed and take necessary precautions to enjoy the sun safely while minimizing the adverse effects on your skin.

Hourly UV Index in San Marcos

The UV Index throughout the day presents a dynamic pattern of sun exposure. Starting at a mellow 2 at 7:00 AM, the index climbs steadily, reaching a moderate 4 by 8:00 AM. By 9:00 AM, it spikes to 8, signaling the need for sun protection. The peak occurs at 12:00 PM, hitting a scorching 14, making this the critical time for safety measures. The intensity gradually declines after 1:00 PM, as the UV Index dips to 12, followed by a notable drop to 5 by 3:00 PM. As the day winds down, the UV levels settle back to a low 1 by 5:00 PM, finally resting at 0 after sunset at 7:00 PM. Awareness of these fluctuations allows for safer outdoor activities and greater enjoyment of the sun.

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	8	very high	15 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	5	moderate	30 min
16:00	2	low	45 min
17:00	1	low	45 min
18:00	1	low	45 min
19:00	0	low	45 min

Monthly UV Index Trends in San Marcos

During the year, the UV Index shows significant seasonal changes, remaining in the extreme category from January through July, with indices peaking at 14 in March through June. This translates to a rapid burn time of just 10 minutes, making these months particularly high-risk for sun damage. Although the UV Index decreases slightly in July to 13, the exposure remains extreme, continuing the trend through August and September. October also presents a high-risk period with a UV Index of 13 before dropping to 10 in November and December, where it enters the very high category and allows for a longer burn time of 15 minutes. Visitors and residents are strongly advised to take precautionary measures—such as wearing protective clothing, seeking shade, and applying sunscreen—especially from January to October, when the risk of harm from UV exposure is significantly elevated.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for San Marcos, Nicaragua

The monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) represents the highest UV radiation level recorded each month in San Marcos. 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 San Marcos, 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 San Marcos UV Index with Other Nicaragua Cities

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

San Marcos's solar exposure compared to other cities in Nicaragua. Generated using Copernicus Atmosphere Monitoring Service information.
	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Chinandega UVI	11	12	14	14	14	14	13	13	13	13	10	9
Leon UVI	11	12	14	14	14	14	13	13	13	13	10	10
Managua UVI	11	13	14	14	14	13	13	13	13	13	10	10
San Marcos	11	13	14	14	14	14	13	13	13	13	10	10
Masaya UVI	11	13	14	14	14	14	14	13	13	13	10	10
Matagalpa UVI	11	13	15	15	14	14	14	14	14	14	11	10