UV Index in Masaya, Nicaragua

Last updated: July 2, 2025

Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors in Masaya, Nicaragua, where sunny days are the norm. With the region's climate classified as Aw, UV exposure can significantly impact skin health, increasing the risk of sunburn and long-term damage. Awareness of daily UV levels—peaking as high as 14 around noon—empowers individuals to take necessary precautions to protect their skin during peak hours. Emphasizing sun safety is essential in this vibrant city, where outdoor activities are plentiful year-round. Stay informed and enjoy the sun responsibly!

Hourly UV Index in Masaya

The UV Index today presents a dynamic journey through the hours, starting mild at 07:00 with a score of 2. By 08:00, it climbs to 4, and then exponentially peaks at 14 during the noon hour of 12:00. The sun's intensity is a force to reckon with, reaching its zenith at 11:00 with a maximum of 13. However, as the afternoon progresses, the index begins to decline; by 14:00, it drops to 9, and by 16:00, it further sinks to 3. The evening transitions into a safer zone, with values returning to 1 by 17:00 and 18:00, finally resting at 0 by 19:00. This data highlights the importance of sun protection, particularly 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	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	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 Masaya

Throughout the year, the UV Index exhibits extreme levels, particularly from February to July, with peak values reaching 14 and a consistent burn time of just 10 minutes during these months. November and December see a slight reduction to a UV Index of 10, classified as very high, allowing for a burn time of 15 minutes. Visitors and residents are strongly advised to take precautions during these high-risk months by wearing protective clothing, applying broad-spectrum sunscreen, and seeking shade during peak sunlight hours to minimize the risk of sunburn and long-term skin damage. It is crucial to remain vigilant, especially when UV levels are extreme, to ensure safety while enjoying outdoor activities.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Masaya, Nicaragua

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

The table above highlights how UV exposure in Masaya 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.

Masaya'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	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