UV Index in Managua, Nicaragua

Last updated: July 2, 2025

In Managua, Nicaragua, being aware of the UV Index is crucial for safeguarding your skin health under the intense tropical sun. Understanding the UV levels not only helps prevent sunburn but also reduces the risk of long-term skin damage, particularly during peak hours when the index can soar as high as 13. With a climate classified as Aw, Managua experiences a mix of tropical savanna characteristics and high UV exposure year-round, making it essential for residents and visitors alike to stay informed about daily UV levels. Don't let the sun catch you off guard—protect your skin and enjoy all that this vibrant city has to offer!

Hourly UV Index in Managua

As the sun rises, the UV Index starts at a mild 2 at 7:00 AM, making it a gentle beginning to the day. By 8:00 AM, it climbs to 4, hinting at the need for a bit of sun protection. The intensity reaches its peak between 10:00 AM and 12:00 PM, soaring to a high of 13. This powerful midday sun calls for extra caution as the UV index hovers at this level for two consecutive hours before gradually tapering off. By 3:00 PM, the UV Index drops to 5 and continues to decline, hitting 1 by 5:00 PM. As evening approaches, the UV levels ease to 0 by 7:00 PM, wrapping up the day with a low-risk, sun-safe atmosphere. Enjoy the bright moments, but don’t forget your sunscreen during those peak hours!

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	7	high	25 min
10:00	11	extreme	10 min
11:00	13	extreme	10 min
12:00	13	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

Monthly UV Index Trends in Managua

The UV Index shows extreme levels of solar radiation from January through June, with values peaking at 14 between March and May, indicating a burn time of only 10 minutes for unprotected skin. The summer months—July through September—maintain a high UV Index of 13, sustaining the risk of skin damage within the same short exposure time. October also remains at 13, signifying the ongoing need for protection. By November and December, the index drops slightly to 10, categorized as very high, but the burn time increases to 15 minutes. Visitors and residents should take necessary precautions, such as wearing sunscreen, protective clothing, and seeking shade, especially during these high-risk months from January to October.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Managua, Nicaragua

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

The table above highlights how UV exposure in Managua 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.

Managua'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 UVI	11	12	14	14	14	14	13	13	13	13	10	10
Managua	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