Last updated: June 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index in Costa Rica and Mexico is crucial for anyone looking to enjoy the sun safely in these beautiful destinations. The UV Index provides a clear measure of the sun's intensity at different times of the day, helping you make informed decisions about sun exposure. This is vital for preventing sunburn and protecting your skin health, especially in Costa Rica's tropical climate, where UV levels can soar to a staggering 14 during midday hours. With such high UV exposure risks, knowing how to monitor the UV Index not only enhances your outdoor experience but also safeguards your long-term wellness. Stay informed and enjoy the vibrant sun without compromising your skin!
As the sun rises, the UV Index starts off low at 1 around 7:00 AM and 8:00 AM, making for a relatively safe start to the day. However, as the clock ticks toward mid-morning, intensity ramps up dramatically from 4 at 9:00 AM to a peak of 14 by 1:00 PM. This is the moment of maximum solar exposure, with the index hitting 13 at 12:00 PM and slightly declining to 11 by 3:00 PM. As the day winds down, the UVI falls steadily, dipping back to 1 by 7:00 PM. If you're planning outdoor activities, prioritize protection during those critical hours between 10:00 AM and 3:00 PM when the sun packs the most punch!
Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
---|---|---|---|
07:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
08:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
09:00 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
10:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
11:00 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
12:00 | 13 | extreme | 10 min |
13:00 | 14 | extreme | 10 min |
14:00 | 13 | extreme | 10 min |
15:00 | 11 | extreme | 10 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 |
During the year, the UV Index experiences significant seasonal changes, with the highest readings occurring from March to October, marking a period of extreme exposure. The high-risk months are particularly concentrated from April to July, where the UV Index peaks at 15. Visitors and residents are strongly advised to take precautions during these months, such as wearing protective clothing, applying broad-spectrum sunscreen, and seeking shade whenever possible, especially during the peak sun hours. While UV levels drop notably in December to a level classified as very high, it’s essential to remain cautious year-round, as even lower indices can still pose health risks. Always stay informed and prioritize skin protection to mitigate the harmful effects of UV radiation.
UV Risk Categories
Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
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 |
Costa Rica | 11 | 13 | 14 | 15 | 14 | 14 | 15 | 14 | 14 | 13 | 11 | 9 |