UV Index in San Rafael del Sur, Nicaragua

Last updated: June 2, 2025

Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors in San Rafael del Sur, Nicaragua, where the climate is notably warm and tropical. With peak UV levels reaching a staggering 14 during midday hours, being aware of these fluctuations is essential for sunburn prevention and maintaining overall skin health. By grasping the significance of UV exposure, you can take informed measures to protect yourself from harmful rays, ensuring that your time in this beautiful coastal locale remains safe and enjoyable.

Hourly UV Index in San Rafael del Sur

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!

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	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

Monthly UV Index Trends in San Rafael del Sur

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.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for San Rafael del Sur, Nicaragua

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

The table above highlights how UV exposure in San Rafael del Sur 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.

San Rafael del Sur'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 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 Rafael del Sur	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