UV Index in San Francisco, Nicaragua

Last updated: May 3, 2025

Understanding the UV Index is crucial for everyone living in or visiting San Francisco, Nicaragua, where the sun’s rays can be intense, particularly during midday. The UV Index reflects the strength of ultraviolet radiation and plays a vital role in preventing sunburn, protecting skin health, and reducing the risk of skin cancer. With a tropical climate characterized by high temperatures, San Francisco experiences significant UV levels, peaking at 14 around noon, which can cause skin damage in just a short time. Staying informed about daily UV exposure can help you take proactive measures, such as wearing sunscreen and protective clothing, safeguarding your skin while enjoying the vibrant outdoors.

Hourly UV Index in San Francisco

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 Francisco

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 San Francisco, Nicaragua

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

The table above highlights how UV exposure in San Francisco 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 Francisco'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
San Francisco	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