Last updated: June 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for the residents and visitors of El Palmar (San Gabriel), Mexico, where the climate is marked by its distinct tropical features, making it vital to stay informed about sun exposure risks throughout the day. The UV levels can soar significantly, peaking at 14 around 1 PM, which can lead to severe sunburn and long-term skin damage if precautions aren't taken. With an average climate characterized by warm temperatures, being aware of these UV index fluctuations helps ensure your skin's health and safety. By knowing when to seek shade and apply sunscreen, you can enjoy the beauty of El Palmar while protecting yourself from harmful ultraviolet rays.
The UV Index data reveals a dynamic shift in sun intensity throughout the day. Early morning hours from 07:00 to 09:00 see a mild index, peaking at 3 by 09:00. However, the sun's strength escalates sharply as we approach midday, with the index skyrocketing to 12 at 12:00 and reaching its zenith at 14:00 with a striking 14. As the afternoon progresses, a gradual decline begins, dropping to 10 by 15:00, and tapering down as evening approaches. By 19:00, the UV Index returns to a gentle 1, reminiscent of the early morning's cool embrace. It's a clear reminder to stay protected during peak hours, especially between 11:00 and 14:00, when the sun poses its strongest rays.
| 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 | 6 | high | 25 min |
| 11:00 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
| 12:00 | 12 | extreme | 10 min |
| 13:00 | 14 | extreme | 10 min |
| 14:00 | 13 | extreme | 10 min |
| 15:00 | 10 | very high | 15 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 |
Throughout the year, the UV Index demonstrates significant seasonal variation, with peak levels occurring from February to October. The highest risk months are March through October, where the UV Index consistently reaches 14, classified as extreme with a minimal burn time of just 10 minutes. Visitors and residents should take precautionary measures during these months, such as wearing protective clothing, applying sunscreen with high SPF, and seeking shade to minimize sun exposure. In contrast, January, November, and December experience lower UV levels, classified as very high, with burn times extending to 15 minutes. However, it's still important to remain vigilant about sun safety year-round.
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 |
| El Palmar (San Gabriel) | 10 | 12 | 14 | 14 | 14 | 14 | 14 | 13 | 13 | 12 | 10 | 9 |
| 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 |