Last updated: May 3, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors of San Francisco Libre, Nicaragua, where the sun’s intensity can pose significant health risks. With UV levels reaching a peak of 14 during midday, awareness of these fluctuations is vital for preventing sunburn and maintaining overall skin health. This tropical climate, characterized by its high temperatures and sunny days, necessitates monitoring UV exposure to safeguard against the harmful effects of ultraviolet radiation. Be aware and stay protected as you enjoy the beautiful outdoor spaces this vibrant town has to offer!
The UV Index throughout the day exhibits a striking pattern, peaking dramatically at 14 around 11:00 and 12:00. Starting from a modest 2 at 07:00, the intensity quickly escalates, reaching 8 by 09:00 and hitting the extreme level of 11 at 10:00. As the sun reaches its zenith, it maintains a high UV index of 14 until 13:00. Afterward, the intensity begins to wane, dropping to 8 by 14:00. By the late afternoon, the numbers decline further, resting at 5 by 15:00 before falling to 0 by 18:00. For sun-seekers, it’s clear that the midday hours are critical for sun protection.
Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
---|---|---|---|
07:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
08:00 | 5 | 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 | 8 | 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 |
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.
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 |
San Francisco Libre | 11 | 13 | 14 | 14 | 14 | 13 | 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 |