UV Index in Matagalpa, Nicaragua

Last updated: June 2, 2025

Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors in Matagalpa, Nicaragua, where the region's warm, tropical climate poses unique sun exposure risks. On a typical day, UV levels can peak dramatically, especially between 10 AM and 2 PM, making awareness vital for sunburn prevention and long-term skin health. With UV Index readings soaring to as high as 14, it’s essential to protect your skin from harmful rays. Knowledge of these levels can empower you to enjoy the beautiful outdoors while minimizing the risk of skin damage—so stay informed and stay safe under the sun!

Hourly UV Index in Matagalpa

The UV Index today demonstrates a significant rise in intensity as the day progresses, peaking at a formidable 14 at noon. Starting from a modest 2 at 7:00 AM, the index climbs steadily through the morning, reaching a maximum of 11 by 10:00 AM. The midday sun hits its zenith around 11:00 AM and 12:00 PM, where the UV levels suggest the potential for serious skin damage without adequate protection. As the afternoon unfolds, the index begins to wane, dropping to 9 by 2:00 PM, before further declining to 5 at 3:00 PM. The evening hours bring a welcome relief, with UV levels fading to 1 by 5:00 PM and ultimately falling to 0 after 7:00 PM. It’s essential to stay vigilant and protect your skin 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	5	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	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 Matagalpa

Throughout the year, the UV Index remains notably high, peaking in March and April with values of 15, indicating an extreme risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure, with a burn time of just 10 minutes. The summer months of May to October show consistent values around 14, maintaining the extreme category and reinforcing the need for vigilant sun protection. January and February also present high risks, demonstrating UV Index values of 11 and 13, respectively. Visitors and residents should exercise caution, particularly during the high-risk months from late winter through early fall, ensuring they wear sunscreen, hats, and protective clothing to mitigate the harmful effects of UV radiation. In December, the UV Index slightly decreases to 10, classified as very high, but still allows for only 15 minutes of safe sun exposure, underscoring the importance of ongoing sun safety year-round.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Matagalpa, Nicaragua

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

The table above highlights how UV exposure in Matagalpa 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.

Matagalpa'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
Matagalpa	11	13	15	15	14	14	14	14	14	14	11	10