Last updated: July 2, 2025
In Ascension, Mexico, staying informed about the UV Index is essential for protecting your skin and overall health. Understanding UV levels not only aids in preventing painful sunburns but also plays a crucial role in reducing the long-term risks of skin damage and related conditions. With a semi-arid climate (BSk) characterized by intense sunlight, residents and visitors to Ascension face elevated UV exposure, especially during midday hours when indices peak at a striking 12. Being aware of these levels empowers you to enjoy the sun safely while taking necessary precautions.
As the sun rises, the UV Index starts at a low 1 at 07:00, offering a safe environment for early risers. By 08:00, it edges up to 2, still remaining relatively mild. However, the tide begins to turn at 09:00 as it climbs to 3, marking the onset of more significant UV radiation. From 10:00 onward, the index surges dramatically, peaking at an intense 12 between 13:00 and 14:00—a critical window where sun protection becomes essential. After reaching its zenith, the UV levels begin a gradual decline, dropping to 10 at 15:00, and continuing to fall to just 1 by 19:00. This hourly data underscores the importance of vigilance during the midday hours when UV exposure is at its highest.
Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
---|---|---|---|
07:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
08:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
09:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
10:00 | 6 | high | 25 min |
11:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
12:00 | 11 | extreme | 10 min |
13:00 | 12 | extreme | 10 min |
14:00 | 12 | 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, UV Index levels display significant seasonal changes, with the highest risks occurring from February to September. The months of April to September feature an extreme exposure category, peaking at UV Index 13 in May and June, where the burn time drops to just 10 minutes. Visitors and residents should be particularly cautious during these months and consider protective measures such as wearing sunscreen, hats, and protective clothing when outdoors. January, December, and November present moderate to high exposure levels, allowing for longer burn times of 25 to 30 minutes, yet sun protection remains advisable. As the UV Index varies dramatically throughout the year, staying informed and prepared is essential for safe outdoor activities.
UV Risk Categories
Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Ascension | 5 | 8 | 10 | 12 | 13 | 13 | 12 | 12 | 11 | 9 | 7 | 5 |
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 |