Last updated: June 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors in Loreto, Mexico, where the warm BWh climate can lead to increased risks of sun exposure. The UV Index measures the strength of ultraviolet radiation from the sun, and being aware of these levels is essential for preventing sunburn and protecting your skin health. With peak UV readings often reaching a staggering 12 during midday, it's vital to take precautions to shield yourself from harmful rays, especially in an area known for its beautiful outdoor activities and sunny days. Stay informed and enjoy the sun safely!
As the sun rises, the UV Index starts off low at a manageable 1 from 07:00 to 08:00. However, things heat up quickly as we move into the late morning; by 10:00, it spikes to 5, reaching 8 at 11:00. The peak intensity occurs at 12:00, with an impressive index of 11, closely followed by 12 at 13:00 and 14:00—the sun is at its strongest! A gradual decrease follows, dropping to 10 by 15:00 and continuing down to 4 at 17:00. As the day winds down, the index relaxes further to 2 at 18:00 and returns to a safe 1 by 19:00. It's clear that today's UV risk peaks around midday, so remember to stay protected during those exposed hours!
| Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 08:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 09:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 10:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 11:00 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
| 12:00 | 11 | extreme | 10 min |
| 13:00 | 12 | extreme | 10 min |
| 14:00 | 12 | extreme | 10 min |
| 15:00 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
| 16:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 17:00 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
| 18:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 19:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
Throughout the year, UV levels exhibit significant seasonal variations, peaking during the late spring and summer months. January starts with a UV Index of 6 (high), allowing for a burn time of 25 minutes, but this escalates dramatically in February with a UV Index of 8 (very high) and the burn time decreasing to just 15 minutes. The highest risk months are from March to September, where the UV Index remains consistently at 12 (extreme), resulting in an alarming burn time of only 10 minutes. As we transition into October, the UV Index decreases slightly to 9 (very high), but it still poses a risk with a 15-minute burn time. By the end of the year, in November and December, the UV Index returns to 7 and 6 respectively, both categorized as high, with burn times extending back to 25 minutes. Visitors and residents are advised to take precautions during high-risk months, particularly from March through September, by wearing protective clothing, using broad-spectrum sunscreen, and limiting sun exposure, especially during peak hours.
UV Risk Categories
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Loreto | 6 | 8 | 10 | 12 | 12 | 12 | 12 | 12 | 12 | 9 | 7 | 6 |
| Guadalajara UVI | 9 | 11 | 14 | 14 | 14 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 12 | 9 | 8 |
| Iztapalapa UVI | 10 | 12 | 14 | 15 | 14 | 14 | 14 | 14 | 14 | 12 | 10 | 8 |
| Ecatepec de Morelos UVI | 10 | 12 | 14 | 15 | 15 | 14 | 14 | 13 | 14 | 12 | 10 | 8 |
| Mexico City UVI | 10 | 12 | 14 | 15 | 15 | 14 | 14 | 13 | 14 | 12 | 10 | 8 |
| Puebla UVI | 10 | 12 | 14 | 15 | 15 | 15 | 15 | 14 | 14 | 13 | 10 | 9 |