Last updated: May 3, 2025
In Tonala, Nicaragua, awareness of the UV Index is essential for both locals and visitors alike, especially considering the region’s tropical climate which often leads to higher sun exposure. Understanding UV levels is crucial not only for preventing sunburns but also for maintaining long-term skin health. The UV Index peaks during midday hours, reaching a striking 14, underscoring the importance of taking protective measures when spending time outdoors. With this knowledge, you can enjoy the beautiful sunny days in Tonala while safeguarding your skin from potential damage.
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.
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 |
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 |