UV Index in Cardenas, Nicaragua

Last updated: June 2, 2025

Awareness of the UV Index is essential for residents and visitors in Cardenas, Nicaragua, where sunshine is abundant year-round. Understanding UV levels not only helps in preventing painful sunburns but also plays a crucial role in maintaining long-term skin health. With the climate classified as Aw, Cardenas typically experiences high UV exposure, particularly during the late morning to early afternoon hours when the index peaks at a scorching 14. Staying informed about the UV Index can empower you to enjoy the beautiful Nicaraguan sun safely.

Hourly UV Index in Cardenas

The UV Index throughout the day exhibits a pronounced peak around midday. Starting at a modest 2 at 07:00, it escalates rapidly, reaching a significant 14 by 11:00 and 12:00, marking the most intense exposure period. As the afternoon progresses, the index begins to decline, dropping to 9 by 14:00 and further to 5 by 15:00. The evening brings a welcome relief, with values plummeting to 1 by 17:00 and finally settling to 0 post 18:00. This data emphasizes the importance of sun protection during peak hours, particularly from 10:00 to 14:00, when the UV radiation is most hazardous. Stay safe, stay shaded! ☀️

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	14	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	0	low	45 min
19:00	0	low	45 min

Monthly UV Index Trends in Cardenas

The UV Index exhibits a distinct seasonal pattern, with extreme exposure categories persisting from January through August, showcasing values as high as 15 in April. The months of March to August are particularly high-risk, with consistent values around 14, indicating a burn time of only 10 minutes during peak hours. As the year progresses, a slight decline occurs, with November and December experiencing values of 11 and 10, respectively, but still warranting caution due to very high exposure levels. Visitors and residents are strongly advised to take proactive measures during these months by wearing protective clothing, applying broad-spectrum sunscreen, and limiting sun exposure during peak hours to reduce the risk of skin damage.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Cardenas, Nicaragua

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

The table above highlights how UV exposure in Cardenas 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.

Cardenas'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
Cardenas	11	13	14	15	14	14	14	13	13	13	11	10
Matagalpa UVI	11	13	15	15	14	14	14	14	14	14	11	10