Last updated: May 3, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors in Masatepe, Nicaragua, where the climate zone is classified as Aw, characterized by its warm, tropical feel. The UV Index indicates the strength of ultraviolet radiation from the sun, which can lead to sunburn and long-term skin damage if proper precautions aren't taken. With UV levels reaching a peak of 14 between 11:00 AM and 12:00 PM, it's essential to stay informed and protect your skin, especially in a place known for its vibrant outdoor lifestyle. By being aware of the UV Index, you can make informed decisions about sun exposure and safeguard your skin health under the strong sun.
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 |
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 |
Masatepe | 11 | 13 | 14 | 14 | 14 | 14 | 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 |