UV Index in Leon, Nicaragua

Last updated: May 3, 2025

In Leon, Nicaragua, awareness of the UV Index is crucial for maintaining optimal skin health and preventing sunburn. Understanding local UV levels helps residents and visitors alike take proactive measures against harmful UV radiation, especially during the peak sunlight hours. With a tropical dry climate characterized by intense sunlight, Leon experiences significant UV exposure, particularly around noon when the UV Index can soar to a staggering 14. Staying informed about the UV Index not only protects your skin but also enhances your enjoyment of the beautiful, sun-soaked days in this vibrant city.

Hourly UV Index in Leon

As the sun rises, the UV Index starts off low at 2 at 07:00, perfect for a morning stroll. By 08:00, it climbs to 4, indicating a bit more sun exposure. The heat of the day peaks between 10:00 and 12:00, with the UV Index soaring to a striking 14 at 12:00. This is the time to take precautions! As the afternoon wanes, the index gradually declines, dropping to 9 by 14:00 and falling further to 5 at 15:00. By the evening, it’s safe to venture out again, with levels decreasing to a mere 0 by 18:00 and remaining so through the night. Stay sun-smart and enjoy the beautiful day while knowing when to seek shade!

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	0	low	45 min
19:00	0	low	45 min

Monthly UV Index Trends in Leon

The UV Index experiences significant seasonal variation, peaking during the first half of the year. From January through June, the index remains at a high level of 11 to 14, categorizing exposure as extreme, with a burn time of just 10 minutes. July through October sees a slight decrease to an index of 13, but it still remains in the extreme category. As the year closes, November and December present a slightly lower UV Index of 10, falling into the very high category, allowing for a slightly longer burn time of 15 minutes. Visitors and residents are strongly advised to take protective measures during the high-risk months of January to June, as well as during the notable UV levels in the autumn. Wearing sunscreen, protective clothing, and seeking shade are essential to minimize the risk of skin damage, especially during peak sun hours.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Leon, Nicaragua

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

The table above highlights how UV exposure in Leon 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.

Leon'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
Leon	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