Last updated: June 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors in Masachapa, Nicaragua, where strong sunlight and tropical climate can lead to significant health risks. With UV levels soaring as high as 14 during midday, staying informed helps prevent sunburn and long-term skin damage, supporting overall skin health. The sun's intensity peaks between 10 AM and 2 PM, making it essential for everyone to be aware of these readings and take protective measures. Enjoy Masachapa's beautiful beaches, but remember to embrace sun safety to ensure a fun and safe time under the sun!
The UV Index throughout the day paints a vivid picture of sun intensity and potential exposure risks. At 7:00 AM, it starts at a mild 2, making it safe for early outdoor activities. However, by 9:00 AM, it ramps up to 8, signaling increased caution. The peak hits at 11:00 AM and 12:00 PM, both soaring to 14, indicating high UV levels that demand protective measures. As the afternoon progresses, the index gradually declines—down to 5 by 3:00 PM and falling to a comfortable 1 by 5:00 PM. Surprisingly, by 7:00 PM, it drops to 0, giving way to safer evening outdoor conditions. Those planning to bask in the sun should be vigilant between 10:00 AM and 2:00 PM, when the sun's rays are at their fiercest!
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 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
16:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
17:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
18:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
19:00 | 0 | low | 45 min |
During the year, the UV Index shows significant seasonal changes, remaining in the extreme category from January through July, with indices peaking at 14 in March through June. This translates to a rapid burn time of just 10 minutes, making these months particularly high-risk for sun damage. Although the UV Index decreases slightly in July to 13, the exposure remains extreme, continuing the trend through August and September. October also presents a high-risk period with a UV Index of 13 before dropping to 10 in November and December, where it enters the very high category and allows for a longer burn time of 15 minutes. Visitors and residents are strongly advised to take precautionary measures—such as wearing protective clothing, seeking shade, and applying sunscreen—especially from January to October, when the risk of harm from UV exposure is significantly elevated.
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 |
Masachapa | 11 | 13 | 14 | 14 | 14 | 14 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 10 | 10 |
Matagalpa UVI | 11 | 13 | 15 | 15 | 14 | 14 | 14 | 14 | 14 | 14 | 11 | 10 |