Last updated: June 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors of El Progreso (Chintul), Mexico, where the warm climate can lead to elevated sun exposure. Awareness of UV levels empowers you to take necessary precautions against harmful effects like sunburn and long-term skin damage. With UV Index readings peaking at a striking 13 around midday, it's vital to protect your skin during the intense sun hours typically experienced in this tropical climate. By staying informed about the UV Index, you can enjoy the beauty of El Progreso while safeguarding your health.
As the day unfolds, the UV Index reveals a dynamic shift in sun exposure. Early hours see a gentle start, with values of 1 at both 07:00 and 08:00. However, by 09:00, it climbs to 3, signaling an increase in UV intensity. The real peak occurs around midday, where the index soars to a scorching 12 at 12:00 and reaches its zenith with a striking 13 at 13:00 and 14:00—a reminder to seek shade and protect your skin. The intensity gradually wanes, dipping to 10 by 15:00 and then descending to 4 at 17:00, before evening settles in with a gentle 2 at 18:00 and returning to 1 by 19:00. Balancing safety with sun enjoyment is key as the day transitions from peak exposure to the soothing dusk.
| 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 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 12:00 | 12 | extreme | 10 min |
| 13:00 | 13 | 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 |
During the year, UV Index levels fluctuate significantly, with the highest risk occurring from February to October, where the index is consistently categorized as extreme. The high-risk months are typically from March to July, peaking at 14, which indicates a burn time of only 10 minutes. In contrast, January, November, and December see a slight reduction in UV exposure, categorized as very high, where the burn time increases to 15 minutes. As a result, visitors and residents are advised to take extra precautions during the extreme months by using broad-spectrum sunscreen, wearing protective clothing, and limiting sun exposure, particularly during midday hours when UV rays are strongest. Being sun-smart is essential to safeguard against harmful sun exposure and its associated risks.
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 |
| El Progreso (Chintul) | 9 | 11 | 13 | 13 | 14 | 13 | 14 | 13 | 13 | 12 | 10 | 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 |