Last updated: June 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors in San Ignacio, Mexico, where the sun can be both a source of warmth and a cause for concern. With a climate classified as BWh, San Ignacio experiences intense sunlight that can lead to higher UV exposure levels, especially during midday when the index peaks at a staggering 12. Recognizing these UV levels is essential for preventing sunburn and protecting skin health—empowering you to enjoy the outdoors safely while minimizing risks associated with harmful rays. Stay informed about the UV Index to keep your skin glowing and avoid the adverse effects of sun exposure!
The UV Index starts off gentle in the early hours, peaking at 1 at 07:00 and remaining low at 08:00. As the sun climbs higher, the intensity increases, reaching 3 by 09:00 and hitting a more noticeable 5 at 10:00. The midday sun becomes increasingly fierce, soaring to 8 by 11:00, then reaching its blistering maximum of 12 at 12:00 and 13:00. Even as the afternoon unfolds, the UV Index remains high at 11 and 12 until 15:00, before gradually tapering off to 8 at 16:00. As dusk approaches, the levels decline, settling back to 3 by 18:00 and returning to a safe 1 by 19:00. It's vital to protect your skin during those peak hours, especially between 11:00 and 15:00!
| 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 | 11 | extreme | 10 min |
| 16:00 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
| 17:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 18:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 19:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
Throughout the year, UV exposure varies significantly, with high-risk months typically spanning from February to September, when the UV Index reaches very high and extreme levels. Particularly alarming is April to September, where the UV Index consistently registers at 12, indicating extreme risk with a minimal recommended burn time of just 10 minutes. In contrast, January and November present a high exposure risk with burn times of 25 minutes, while December sees a moderate risk with a more manageable 30 minutes. Consequently, it is essential for both visitors and residents to take precautions during peak UV months by wearing protective clothing, applying broad-spectrum sunscreen, and limiting time outdoors, especially during midday hours when UV rays are most potent.
UV Risk Categories
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| San Ignacio | 6 | 8 | 10 | 12 | 12 | 12 | 12 | 12 | 12 | 9 | 7 | 5 |
| 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 |