UV Index in Chinandega, Nicaragua

Last updated: May 3, 2025

Understanding the UV Index in Chinandega, Nicaragua is crucial for protecting your skin and overall health in this tropical climate. As UV radiation levels can soar to an average peak of 14 around midday, gaining awareness of these levels is essential for preventing sunburn and reducing long-term skin damage. With temperatures often rising and clear skies prevailing, Chinandega poses unique exposure risks, making it vital to monitor the UV Index daily. By checking these levels, you can take proactive steps to enjoy the sun safely while safeguarding your skin health.

Hourly UV Index in Chinandega

The UV Index showcases a dramatic rise and fall throughout the day, offering insights into sun exposure. Starting at 7:00 AM with a mild index of 2, the sun's strength quickly escalates, peaking at 14 between 12:00 PM and 1:00 PM—the prime time for those seeking a tan or outdoor activity. At 10:00 AM, a noteworthy peak of 11 demands caution for sun-sensitive individuals. As afternoon approaches, the index decreases significantly, slipping to 5 at 3:00 PM, then further dropping to a mere 1 by 5:00 PM and fading to 0 after 6:00 PM. This data highlights the critical hours for protection against UV exposure, especially from 10 AM to 2 PM, where the sun is at its most intense.

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

Monthly UV Index Trends in Chinandega

The UV Index clearly demonstrates a pattern of extreme sun exposure from January through July. The highest values peak in March to June, with an index of 14, indicating the most critical months for UV risk. As summer transitions into fall, the index gradually decreases but remains at a high level through August and September. Notably, November and December present a slight reduction to very high levels, with a burn time of 15 minutes. Residents and visitors should take precautionary measures during these high-risk months, such as wearing protective clothing, applying broad-spectrum sunscreen, and seeking shade to minimize UV exposure and prevent sunburn.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Chinandega, Nicaragua

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

The table above highlights how UV exposure in Chinandega 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.

Chinandega'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	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
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