Last updated: August 1, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors in Jinotega, Nicaragua, where the climate is characterized by its tropical characteristics and elevation. With peak UV levels often reaching a staggering 14, awareness of these UV exposure risks is essential for preventing sunburn and maintaining long-term skin health. As the sun rises higher in the sky, particularly between 10 AM and 2 PM, the potential for harmful effects increases significantly. By staying informed about the UV Index, you can take proactive steps to protect your skin and enjoy the beautiful outdoors of Jinotega safely.
At sunrise, the UV Index begins its ascent, starting at a mild 2 by 07:00. As the sun rises higher, the intensity increases swiftly, reaching a peak of 14 at both 11:00 and 12:00—the hottest part of the day. From there, the index starts to dip, descending to 9 by 14:00 and continuing down to 6 at 15:00. As afternoon transitions into evening, levels decrease further, plummeting to 1 by 17:00 and tapering off to 0 by 19:00. This hourly dance of UV exposure underscores the importance of sun protection, especially during midday when the UV levels are at their highest. Remember to stay safe and shield your skin when the UV Index is soaring!
Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
---|---|---|---|
07:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
08:00 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
09:00 | 7 | high | 25 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 | 0 | low | 45 min |
19:00 | 0 | low | 45 min |
Throughout the year, the UV Index remains notably high, peaking in March and April with values of 15, indicating an extreme risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure, with a burn time of just 10 minutes. The summer months of May to October show consistent values around 14, maintaining the extreme category and reinforcing the need for vigilant sun protection. January and February also present high risks, demonstrating UV Index values of 11 and 13, respectively. Visitors and residents should exercise caution, particularly during the high-risk months from late winter through early fall, ensuring they wear sunscreen, hats, and protective clothing to mitigate the harmful effects of UV radiation. In December, the UV Index slightly decreases to 10, classified as very high, but still allows for only 15 minutes of safe sun exposure, underscoring the importance of ongoing 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 |
Jinotega | 11 | 13 | 15 | 15 | 14 | 14 | 14 | 14 | 14 | 14 | 11 | 10 |
Matagalpa UVI | 11 | 13 | 15 | 15 | 14 | 14 | 14 | 14 | 14 | 14 | 11 | 10 |