Last updated: July 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors of Esquipulas, Nicaragua, as it plays a significant role in promoting sun safety and protecting skin health. With peak UV levels soaring as high as 14 during the midday hours, awareness of these values can prevent sunburn and long-term skin damage. Esquipulas, characterized by its tropical savanna climate, experiences intense sunlight, making it essential to stay informed about daily UV exposure risks. Whether you’re exploring the vibrant local culture or enjoying the outdoors, knowing the UV Index can help you make informed decisions to enjoy the sun safely.
The UV Index throughout the day presents a dynamic pattern of sun exposure. Starting at a mellow 2 at 7:00 AM, the index climbs steadily, reaching a moderate 4 by 8:00 AM. By 9:00 AM, it spikes to 8, signaling the need for sun protection. The peak occurs at 12:00 PM, hitting a scorching 14, making this the critical time for safety measures. The intensity gradually declines after 1:00 PM, as the UV Index dips to 12, followed by a notable drop to 5 by 3:00 PM. As the day winds down, the UV levels settle back to a low 1 by 5:00 PM, finally resting at 0 after sunset at 7:00 PM. Awareness of these fluctuations allows for safer outdoor activities and greater enjoyment of the sun.
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 | 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 | 2 | low | 45 min |
17:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
18:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
19:00 | 0 | low | 45 min |
The UV Index shows significant seasonal variations, with the highest levels occurring from February to August, reaching an extreme of 14 during many of these months. The highest-risk months for UV exposure are March, April, May, July, and August, where a burn can occur in just 10 minutes. Residents and visitors are strongly advised to take precautions during these months, including wearing protective clothing, sunglasses, and sunscreen with a high SPF. Even in the cooler months of September to December, the UV Index remains notably elevated, especially in early fall, emphasizing the need for sun safety throughout the year.
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 |
Esquipulas | 11 | 13 | 14 | 14 | 14 | 13 | 14 | 14 | 13 | 13 | 11 | 10 |
Matagalpa UVI | 11 | 13 | 15 | 15 | 14 | 14 | 14 | 14 | 14 | 14 | 11 | 10 |