Last updated: June 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is essential for residents and visitors in Tonala, Nicaragua, as it provides crucial insights into daily ultraviolet radiation levels and their potential effects on skin health. With UV indices peaking at an alarming 14 during midday, awareness can significantly aid in sunburn prevention and long-term skin protection. Tonala’s tropical climate, characterized by intense sunlight, heightens the risk of UV exposure, particularly between the hours of 10 AM and 2 PM. Staying informed about these levels not only helps safeguard your skin but also enhances your overall health and well-being in this beautiful region.
The UV Index trend throughout the day reveals a striking peak during midday hours, urging caution for outdoor enthusiasts. Starting modestly at 2 at 07:00, the index rapidly climbs, reaching a significant 14 by 12:00, making this the most critical time for sun exposure. Even as the clock ticks towards the afternoon, the UV levels remain high, peaking at 13 at 11:00 and 12:00, before gradually declining to 5 by 15:00. As the day winds down, the index drops to 3 at 16:00, then tapering off to 1 by the evening hours. For those venturing outside, it's essential to protect your skin between 10:00 AM and 2:00 PM, when the sun's rays are most intense.
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 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
17:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
18:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
19:00 | 0 | low | 45 min |
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.
UV Risk Categories
Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Tonala | 11 | 12 | 14 | 14 | 14 | 14 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 10 | 9 |
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 |
Matagalpa UVI | 11 | 13 | 15 | 15 | 14 | 14 | 14 | 14 | 14 | 14 | 11 | 10 |