UV Index in Chihuahua, Mexico

Last updated: May 3, 2025

In Chihuahua, Mexico, being aware of the UV Index is crucial for safeguarding your skin and overall health. With the region's BSh climate, high UV levels are a common concern, often peaking at a staggering 13 around noon. Understanding these levels is essential not just for preventing painful sunburns, but also for promoting long-term skin health. With daily UV Index values varying significantly throughout the day, it’s important for residents and visitors alike to stay informed and take appropriate precautions under the sun-drenched skies of Chihuahua.

Hourly UV Index in Chihuahua

The UV Index rises sharply throughout the morning, starting at a low of 1 at 07:00 and reaching 4 by 09:00. As the sun climbs higher, the intensity peaks dramatically, hitting 10 at 11:00 and soaring to a maximum of 13 between 12:00 and 13:00. This indicates a moment of heightened risk for sun exposure, urging outdoor enthusiasts to take precautions. As the afternoon progresses, the index gradually declines, dropping to 9 at 15:00 and continuing to decrease to 6 at 16:00, before falling back to 2 by 18:00. The day winds down with the index returning to 1 by 19:00, signaling a safe period for evening activities. Remember to stay protected during those peak hours!

Average solar exposure data for the current time of the year. Actual values may vary and depend on many factors, such as cloud cover, vegetation cover, surface type, etc.
Time	UVI	Category	Time to Burn
07:00	1	low	45 min
08:00	2	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	13	extreme	10 min
14:00	12	extreme	10 min
15:00	9	very high	15 min
16:00	6	high	25 min
17:00	4	moderate	30 min
18:00	2	low	45 min
19:00	1	low	45 min

Monthly UV Index Trends in Chihuahua

The UV Index exhibits significant seasonal changes, with the highest values recorded from March to September, indicating months of extreme exposure. Specifically, March through August all register a UV Index of 13, while September is slightly lower at 12. The high-risk months for sun exposure are February through October, particularly noting March to July as critical periods due to their extreme exposure category and a burn time of just 10 minutes. Residents and visitors should take precautions during these months by seeking shade, wearing protective clothing, and applying broad-spectrum sunscreen regularly to reduce the risk of sunburn and long-term skin damage. In contrast, January and December have a 6 UV Index, while November and October see a decline to 8 and 10 respectively, indicating some respite from the sun's intensity.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Chihuahua, Mexico

The monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) represents the highest UV radiation level recorded each month in Chihuahua. It measures the strength of ultraviolet radiation from the sun and helps assess the risk of sunburn and UV-related health issues.

Data source: Statistical UV Index data for Chihuahua, based on information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

UV Risk Categories

Extreme (11+): Avoid the sun, stay in shade.
Very High (8-10): Limit sun exposure.
High (6-7): Use SPF 30+ and protective clothing.
Moderate (3-5): Midday shade recommended.
Low (0-2): No protection needed.

Compare Chihuahua UV Index with Other Mexico Cities

The table above highlights how UV exposure in Chihuahua compares to other major locations across Mexico. This comparison helps travelers and residents better understand regional sun intensity and plan outdoor activities with sun safety in mind.

Chihuahua's solar exposure compared to other cities in Mexico. Generated using Copernicus Atmosphere Monitoring Service information.
	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Chihuahua	6	9	11	13	13	13	13	13	12	10	8	6
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