Last updated: June 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors of Santo Domingo (La Cascada), Mexico, where the sun's powerful rays can significantly impact skin health. With the local climate characterized by warm temperatures and abundant sunlight, being aware of UV levels is vital for preventing sunburn and minimizing long-term skin damage. During peak hours, especially between noon and 2 PM, the UV Index can reach dangerous levels of 13 to 14, indicating a need for protection. Stay informed and safeguard your skin while enjoying the beautiful outdoor activities that this vibrant location has to offer!
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 |
| Santo Domingo (La Cascada) | 11 | 13 | 14 | 15 | 14 | 14 | 15 | 14 | 14 | 13 | 11 | 9 |