Last updated: August 1, 2025
In Nueva Costa Rica, Mexico, being aware of the UV Index is crucial for protecting yourself from harmful sun exposure. Understanding UV levels can significantly aid in preventing sunburn and maintaining skin health, especially for those who enjoy outdoor activities in this vibrant region. With a tropical climate and typically high UV levels—peaking at a staggering 15 around midday—residents and visitors alike must be vigilant. By being informed about the UV Index, you can take proactive steps to enjoy the sun safely while minimizing the risk of skin damage. So, whether you’re hitting the beach or exploring the local landscape, make UV awareness a part of your routine.
The UV Index today starts off relatively low, peaking at 1 between 7:00 and 8:00 AM, making it a safe time for morning strolls. As the sun rises higher in the sky, from 9:00 AM onward, the intensity ramps up, reaching a notable 6 by 10:00 AM. By noon, the index skyrockets to 13, indicating a high risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure. The sun's intensity reaches its zenith at 1:00 PM with a UV Index of 15, before gradually tapering off to 11 by 3:00 PM. As the afternoon wanes, the index declines steadily, dropping to 4 by 5:00 PM, and returns to a comfortable 1 by 7:00 PM. It’s wise to seek shade and wear protective clothing during the midday peak to safeguard your skin from harmful UV 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 | 9 | 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 remains alarmingly high, particularly from January to October, where it consistently falls into the extreme exposure category. The months of March, April, July, and May peak at UV Index values of 14 to 15, signaling the most intense risk periods for sunburn, with a minimal burn time of just 10 minutes. February and October also harbor extreme UV levels, while November and December, although slightly lower with a UV Index of 10 and 9 respectively, still warrant caution with a burn time of 15 minutes. Visitors and residents are strongly advised to take protective measures year-round, particularly during these high-risk months, including wearing sunscreen, protective clothing, and seeking shade, to reduce the risk of harmful UV exposure.
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 |
| Nueva Costa Rica | 11 | 13 | 14 | 15 | 14 | 14 | 15 | 14 | 14 | 13 | 10 | 9 |
| Puebla UVI | 10 | 12 | 14 | 15 | 15 | 15 | 15 | 14 | 14 | 13 | 10 | 9 |