Last updated: July 2, 2025
In Durango, Mexico, awareness of the UV Index is crucial for safeguarding your skin against harmful ultraviolet rays. Understanding UV levels is essential not only for preventing sunburn but also for maintaining long-term skin health by mitigating the risk of skin damage and related conditions. Given Durango's arid climate characterized by high temperatures and abundant sunshine, residents and visitors alike face elevated UV exposure, particularly during peak hours. With UV Index values soaring to 12 around midday, it's vital to stay informed and take necessary precautions to protect yourself from the sun's relentless rays.
The UV Index for today showcases a dramatic rise as the sun climbs higher in the sky. Beginning at a mild 1 at 07:00, it reaches a low 2 by 08:00, signaling a safe start to the day. However, as the clock ticks toward 10:00, intensity spikes to 7, peaking at an intense 12 from noon to 13:00, indicating a critical time for sun safety. Following this zenith, the index gradually decreases, falling back to 10 by 14:00 and tapering off to 1 by 19:00. To enjoy the outdoors while minimizing skin damage, it’s essential to stay vigilant around midday when the UV levels are at their highest!
| Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 08:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 09:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 10:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 11:00 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
| 12:00 | 12 | extreme | 10 min |
| 13:00 | 12 | extreme | 10 min |
| 14:00 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
| 15:00 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
| 16:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 17:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 18:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 19:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
Throughout the year, the UV Index shows significant seasonal variation, with the highest levels occurring from March to August. During these months, particularly April through July, the UV Index reaches a peak of 12 in July, categorized as extreme, allowing only a 10-minute burn time for unprotected skin. February also sees elevated levels with a high UV Index of 6. To ensure safety, visitors and residents should take extra precautions during the high-risk months of March, April, May, June, July, and August, when the risk of skin damage from sun exposure is at its highest. It is advisable to wear protective clothing, apply sunscreen, and seek shade during peak hours to minimize the risk of sunburn. As UV levels decrease in the fall and winter months, from September to December, individuals can enjoy more moderate exposure with indices dropping back to 4 or 5, indicating moderate risk and longer burn times of 30 minutes.
UV Risk Categories
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Durango | 4 | 6 | 9 | 10 | 11 | 11 | 12 | 11 | 10 | 8 | 5 | 4 |
| 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 |