Last updated: July 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for the residents and visitors of San Ignacio, Mexico, where the sun shines brightly in a BWh climate characterized by high temperatures and ample sunshine. With peak UV levels soaring to a dangerous 12 around midday, awareness of these levels is essential for effective sunburn prevention and maintaining the long-term health of your skin. This knowledge not only empowers you to enjoy the outdoors safely but also helps mitigate the risks associated with prolonged sun exposure. As you explore this vibrant region, staying informed about the UV Index will ensure you can enjoy your activities while protecting your skin from harmful effects.
The UV Index today exhibits a distinct rise as the day progresses, peaking at a striking 12 between 1 PM and 2 PM, indicating a high risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure. Early morning hours, from 7 AM to 9 AM, show low levels of UV radiation, with indices at 1 and 3 respectively. As the clock ticks toward noon, values surge significantly, climbing to 8 at 11 AM and skyrocketing to 11 by noon. The intensity starts to wane after 2 PM, gradually falling to 5 by 5 PM, before settling back to 1 by 7 PM. To protect your skin during peak exposure times, remember to seek shade, wear protective clothing, and apply sunscreen!
| 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 | 2 | low | 45 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 |