Last updated: July 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index in Loreto, Mexico is crucial for anyone enjoying the sun-drenched beauty of this stunning coastal town. With peak UV levels reaching a harsh 12 during the midday hours, knowledge of these ratings is vital for preventing sunburn and maintaining long-term skin health. Loreto's BWh climate means abundant sunshine and high UV exposure, especially from late morning to early afternoon. By keeping a close eye on the UV Index, you can better protect yourself and your loved ones from the harmful effects of ultraviolet rays while soaking in all the natural wonders this beautiful region has to offer.
The day begins gently with a UV Index of 1 at both 07:00 and 08:00, indicating minimal sun exposure. However, as the clock strikes 09:00, the index rises to 3, signifying a gradual increase in UV intensity. By 10:00, it reaches 5, and the sun takes center stage at 11:00 with a striking 8. The peak arrives at 12:00, soaring to an impressive 10, and continues to climb, hitting its pinnacle with a dazzling 12 at 13:00. As the afternoon unfolds, values begin a slow descent: 11 at 14:00, 10 at 15:00, and then dropping to 7 by 16:00. The evening brings relief, with the index tapering down to 4 at 17:00, 2 at 18:00, and finally returning to a safe 1 by 19:00. Remember to stay protected during those peak 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 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
| 13:00 | 12 | extreme | 10 min |
| 14:00 | 11 | 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 |