Last updated: June 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is vital for residents and visitors in San Nicolas, Nicaragua, where the tropical climate presents unique sun exposure challenges. With UV levels reaching a peak of 14 at noon, awareness of these fluctuations is essential for preventing sunburn and safeguarding skin health. The region's consistent sunlight means that even on seemingly mild days, the risk of harmful UV radiation is significant. Embracing UV awareness not only promotes a healthier lifestyle but also ensures that everyone can enjoy the beautiful Nicaraguan outdoors while minimizing the dangers of overexposure.
The UV Index today demonstrates a significant rise in intensity as the day progresses, peaking at a formidable 14 at noon. Starting from a modest 2 at 7:00 AM, the index climbs steadily through the morning, reaching a maximum of 11 by 10:00 AM. The midday sun hits its zenith around 11:00 AM and 12:00 PM, where the UV levels suggest the potential for serious skin damage without adequate protection. As the afternoon unfolds, the index begins to wane, dropping to 9 by 2:00 PM, before further declining to 5 at 3:00 PM. The evening hours bring a welcome relief, with UV levels fading to 1 by 5:00 PM and ultimately falling to 0 after 7:00 PM. It’s essential to stay vigilant and protect your skin during those peak hours!
| 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 | 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 demonstrates consistently high levels throughout the year, with an extreme exposure category from January to September, reflecting a burn time of just 10 minutes for unprotected skin. March and April peak at a UV Index of 15, indicating the highest risk months, closely followed by May and June with an index of 14. From October to December, while the exposure is slightly lower, the burn time increases to 15 minutes in December. It is crucial for both visitors and residents to take proper sun protection measures during these months, particularly from March to September. Recommendations include applying sunscreen, wearing protective clothing, and seeking shade to minimize the risk of skin damage. Stay vigilant and prioritize sun safety year-round!
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 Nicolas | 11 | 13 | 15 | 15 | 14 | 14 | 14 | 14 | 13 | 14 | 11 | 10 |
| Matagalpa UVI | 11 | 13 | 15 | 15 | 14 | 14 | 14 | 14 | 14 | 14 | 11 | 10 |