Last updated: June 2, 2025
In Zaragoza, Mexico, understanding the UV Index is crucial for maintaining skin health and preventing sunburn, especially given the region's arid BWh climate. With UV levels peaking between 10 AM and 2 PM, reaching as high as 12, awareness of these fluctuations can help residents and visitors alike make informed decisions about sun exposure. Proper education on UV radiation not only protects your skin from the harmful effects of the sun but also fosters a healthier lifestyle in this sun-soaked locale. By staying informed about the UV Index in Zaragoza, you can enjoy the outdoors safely while minimizing the risk of lasting skin damage.
The UV Index throughout the day exhibits a notable peak in the late morning to early afternoon hours. Starting from a mild value of 1 at 07:00, it gradually rises, reaching 5 by 09:00 and escalating to a significant 12 at both 12:00 and 13:00. This period marks the most intense sun exposure, where precautions like sunscreen and sunglasses are highly recommended. As the afternoon progresses, the index begins to decline, dropping to 8 by 15:00, and finally falling back to 1 by 19:00. Overall, it’s a day to be mindful of the sun's strength, especially between 11:00 and 14:00, when it’s at its highest.
| Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 08:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 09:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 10:00 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
| 11:00 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
| 12:00 | 12 | extreme | 10 min |
| 13:00 | 12 | extreme | 10 min |
| 14:00 | 11 | extreme | 10 min |
| 15:00 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
| 16:00 | 6 | high | 25 min |
| 17:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 18:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 19:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
Throughout the year, seasonal changes in UV exposure can significantly impact both visitors and residents. From January to February, the UV Index rises from 5 (moderate) to 7 (high), shortening burn time to 25 minutes. As spring arrives, March to April sees a sharp increase, with the index reaching 9 (very high), resulting in a burn time of just 15 minutes, and climbing to 11 (extreme) in April. The summer months of May through August maintain an extreme rating of 12, with a minimal burn time of only 10 minutes. As September rolls in, the index slightly declines to 11, but remains in the extreme category. In October, UV levels decrease to 8 (very high), extending burn time back to 15 minutes, while November and December showcase a return to moderate exposure with indices of 5 and 4, and burn times of 30 minutes. Visitors and residents are advised to take precautionary measures during the high-risk months, particularly from March through October, by seeking shade, wearing protective clothing, and applying sunscreen frequently to minimize the risks associated with UV exposure.
UV Risk Categories
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Zaragoza | 5 | 7 | 9 | 11 | 12 | 12 | 12 | 12 | 11 | 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 |