Last updated: May 3, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors of San Francisco del Norte, Nicaragua, where the high altitude and tropical climate contribute to significant sun exposure. As the sun rises, the UV levels can spike dramatically, peaking at 14 around noon, posing serious risks for skin health and increasing the likelihood of sunburn. Being aware of these levels not only empowers individuals to take necessary precautions—like wearing sunscreen and protective clothing—but also plays a vital role in promoting overall skin health. Given San Francisco del Norte's climatic conditions, recognizing UV risks is essential to enjoy the outdoors safely and responsibly.
The UV Index peaks dramatically during the midday hours, illustrating the sun's intensity in compelling detail. Starting at a modest 2 by 07:00, it swiftly ascends as the day unfolds. By 08:00, it jumps to 5, and then reaches a significant 8 at 09:00. The sun is at its fiercest between 10:00 and 12:00, with the index soaring to 14, an indication to take extra precautions! As 13:00 rolls around, the UV level dips slightly to 12, only to further decrease to 9 by 14:00. Post-midday, the sun's strength wanes; it dramatically drops to 5 by 15:00 and decreases to 1 by 17:00, finally settling at 0 by 19:00. Such data highlights the importance of sun protection during the peak hours when the UV intensity is at its highest.
Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
---|---|---|---|
07:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
08:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
09:00 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
10:00 | 12 | 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 | 2 | low | 45 min |
17:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
18:00 | 0 | low | 45 min |
19:00 | 0 | low | 45 min |
During the year, the UV Index shows extreme levels from January through August, peaking at 14, which indicates a significant risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure. March through July are particularly high-risk months, maintaining this extreme rating and a short burn time of just 10 minutes. As we transition into the fall months of September and October, the UV Index slightly remains at 13 before dropping to 10 in November and December, classified as very high with a burn time extending to 15 minutes. Visitors and residents are advised to take precautionary measures throughout the year, especially during high UV periods, by wearing protective clothing, applying sunscreen, and limiting sun exposure during peak hours to safeguard against skin damage.
UV Risk Categories
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 |
Masaya UVI | 11 | 13 | 14 | 14 | 14 | 14 | 14 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 10 | 10 |
San Francisco del Norte | 11 | 13 | 14 | 14 | 14 | 13 | 14 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 10 | 10 |
Matagalpa UVI | 11 | 13 | 15 | 15 | 14 | 14 | 14 | 14 | 14 | 14 | 11 | 10 |