Last updated: June 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is essential for residents and visitors in Matiguas, Nicaragua, where the tropical climate brings heightened sun exposure. By monitoring UV levels, you can effectively prevent sunburn and protect your skin health. With peak UV readings reaching a striking 13 around noon, it's critical to be mindful of the risks associated with outdoor activities during these hours. Awareness of the UV Index not only helps you enjoy the beautiful environment safely but also contributes to long-term skin care in a region known for its vibrant sunshine.
The UV Index for the day starts off low at 2 by 07:00, but as the sun climbs higher in the sky, it rapidly intensifies. By 10:00, the UV Index peaks at a striking 11, soaring to 13 at both 11:00 and 12:00—a high risk time to be outdoors without protection. It gradually declines after that, slipping to 12 at 13:00 before descending to 9 by 14:00. As the afternoon wanes, the numbers continue to drop, reaching 5 by 15:00 and falling to 1 by 17:00. By evening, the UV Index drops to 0 at 19:00, marking a notable end to the day's hazardous sun exposure. Make sure to apply sunscreen during those peak hours to stay safe!
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 | 13 | 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 |
Matiguas | 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 |