Last updated: May 3, 2025
Understanding the UV Index in Matamoros, Mexico, is essential for protecting your skin against damage from harmful UV radiation. With a climate categorized as BSk, residents and visitors alike should be aware that the UV levels can soar, especially during midday hours. For instance, the UV Index peaks at a staggering 14 between 1 PM and 2 PM, highlighting the urgency of sunburn prevention and maintaining skin health. By regularly monitoring the UV Index, you can make informed decisions about outdoor activities, ensuring safety and well-being under the Mexican sun.
As the sun rises, the UV Index begins at a minimal 1 at 7:00, indicating low exposure risk. By 8:00, it creeps to 2, still a safe level for morning activities. However, the intensity ramps up significantly as the day progresses, reaching a peak of 14 at 1:00 PM—a time to seek shade and wear protective gear. The midday sun is relentless, with values soaring to 13 by 12:00 and 14:00. Fortunately, relief arrives as the sun descends, bringing the index down to 10 by 3:00, followed by a gradual decline to 4 at 5:00. As evening approaches, the UV Index lowers gently back to 1 by 7:00 PM, allowing for a safe close to the day. Remember to stay protected, especially during those peak hours!
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 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
11:00 | 11 | extreme | 10 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 |
The UV Index experiences significant seasonal fluctuations, with the highest levels occurring from March to October, where it reaches extreme categories (12-14), resulting in a burn time as short as 10 minutes during peak months. February marks the transition to very high levels, peaking at 10, while January and December see lower, yet still concerning levels of 7, categorized as high. For visitors and residents, the high-risk months are clearly from March through October, where it is crucial to take protective measures against UV exposure, such as wearing sunscreen, protective clothing, and seeking shade, especially during midday hours. As the UV Index declines in November and December, vigilance should remain, particularly in February when transitioning into the peak season. Always be mindful of the UV index when planning outdoor activities!
UV Risk Categories
Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Matamoros | 7 | 10 | 12 | 14 | 14 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 11 | 8 | 7 |
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 |