July 20, 2026 · San Salvador, El Salvador
See today's UV index in San Salvador hour by hour below. The UV index shows how strong the sun's ultraviolet radiation is — the higher the number, the faster skin can burn. Values are calculated for San Salvador's coordinates and updated daily.
San Salvador lies at 14°N. San Salvador lies in the tropics, where the sun is almost directly overhead at midday. The UV index can reach very high to extreme levels (8–12+) year-round, even when the temperature feels pleasant. Sun protection matters all year.
The UV index is an international scale describing the strength of the sun's ultraviolet radiation at ground level. It starts at 0 and is effectively open-ended — at mid-latitudes it rarely exceeds 8, while in the tropics and high in the mountains it can pass 11. The higher the number, the less time it takes to get sunburnt.
The UV index depends mainly on how high the sun is in the sky. That is why it peaks around solar noon and is greatest in summer near the longest day of the year. Clouds, ozone, altitude and reflection from snow or water also affect the value.
| UV index | Level | Recommendation |
|---|---|---|
| 0–2 | Low | No special protection needed. |
| 3–5 | Moderate | Use sunscreen (SPF 30+), seek shade around midday. |
| 6–7 | High | Sunscreen, hat and sunglasses. Avoid the sun 12:00–15:00. |
| 8–10 | Very high | Extra protection. Limit midday sun exposure. |
| 11+ | Extreme | Avoid the sun at midday. Full protection required. |