Last updated: July 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index in San Juan de Rio Coco, Nicaragua is crucial for maintaining skin health and preventing sunburn, especially in this tropical climate with its consistently high solar exposure. As UV levels can soar to a peak of 14 around midday, being aware of these fluctuations helps residents and visitors alike to protect themselves from harmful ultraviolet radiation. Knowing when to seek shade or apply sunscreen can make a significant difference in reducing the risk of skin damage. With its warm and sunny weather typical of the Aw climate zone, awareness of the UV Index is not just beneficial—it's essential for enjoying time outdoors safely.
As the sun rises, the UV Index begins its ascent, starting at a mild 2 by 7:00 AM. By 8:00 AM, it ramps up to 4, signaling the need for light sun protection. The real intensity kicks in around 9:00 AM, peaking at a robust 11 between 10:00 AM and 12:00 PM, when it reaches its highest point of 14. During these hours, it’s essential to find shade and apply sunscreen to shield yourself from harmful rays. As the afternoon progresses, the UV Index gradually declines, dropping to 12 at 1:00 PM before easing to 6 by 3:00 PM, and finally dipping to a low of 1 by 5:00 PM, signaling a retreat from the sun as daylight fades. This data emphasizes the importance of midday sun safety, ensuring maximum protection during the peak UV exposure.
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 | 14 | extreme | 10 min |
12:00 | 14 | extreme | 10 min |
13:00 | 12 | extreme | 10 min |
14:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
15:00 | 6 | high | 25 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 in this region remains consistently high throughout the year, with extreme exposure levels peaking from February to April, reaching a maximum of 15. This indicates that March and April are particularly concerning, as they coincide with the highest potential for skin damage with a burn time of just 10 minutes. While January and February start off strong, the UV Index slightly decreases in September and October, but still maintains a level of 13, categorized as extreme. November and December mark a slight reduction in intensity, but with values of 11 and 10 respectively, outdoor precautions remain essential, particularly in December where the burn time increases to 15 minutes. Visitors and residents should take proactive measures, such as wearing sunscreen, hats, and protective clothing, especially during these high-risk months to mitigate potential health risks associated with UV exposure.
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 Juan de Rio Coco | 11 | 13 | 15 | 15 | 14 | 14 | 14 | 14 | 13 | 13 | 11 | 10 |
Matagalpa UVI | 11 | 13 | 15 | 15 | 14 | 14 | 14 | 14 | 14 | 14 | 11 | 10 |