Last updated: June 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for protecting your skin and overall health, especially in the sun-drenched paradise of Puerto Rico, Mexico. With the UV levels soaring to a maximum of 14 by mid-afternoon, awareness of these fluctuations can help prevent painful sunburns and long-term skin damage. In this tropical climate, where the sun's rays are consistently intense, knowing when to seek shade or don sunscreen is essential for enjoying the beautiful outdoors safely. Embrace the sun wisely and make informed choices to safeguard your skin health!
As the sun rises, the UV Index starts off low at 1 by 7:00 AM and 8:00 AM, perfect for early morning outings without much concern for sunburn. However, as the day progresses, intensity ramps up significantly, peaking at a striking 14 by 1:00 PM. The 12:00 PM hour marks an intense 13, indicating a time when sun safety becomes crucial. With values tapering off after 3:00 PM, where it drops to 10, and then gradually decreases to 1 by 7:00 PM, it's clear the midday sun is the strongest. To enjoy outdoor activities safely, be sure to slather on sunscreen and wear protective clothing during those peak UV hours!
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 | 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 | 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, the UV Index shows significant seasonal changes, peaking in the summer months. From January to March, the UV Index begins at 10 and escalates to 14 by April, maintaining that level through June. The highest readings occur in July with a UV Index of 15, indicating extremely high exposure risk. Post-July, the levels gradually decline, with October recording a UV Index of 13, before falling back to 10 in November and 9 in December, reflecting very high levels again. The high-risk months for UV exposure are February to October, which are classified as extreme or very high exposure categories. Visitors and residents are advised to take necessary precautions during these months, such as wearing protective clothing, utilizing broad-spectrum sunscreen, and seeking shade during peak sun hours to mitigate the risks associated with high 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 |
Puerto Rico | 10 | 12 | 14 | 14 | 14 | 14 | 15 | 14 | 14 | 13 | 10 | 9 |
Puebla UVI | 10 | 12 | 14 | 15 | 15 | 15 | 15 | 14 | 14 | 13 | 10 | 9 |