Last updated: July 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index in Piedras Negras, Mexico, is crucial for safeguarding your skin and overall health against the dangers of excessive sun exposure. With temperatures soaring in this semi-arid climate, the risk of sunburn increases significantly, especially during midday hours when UV levels peak at 12. Being aware of UV levels helps you take proactive steps to protect yourself, such as seeking shade and applying sunscreen. As you enjoy the vibrant outdoor life of Piedras Negras, stay informed and keep your skin safe from the sun's harmful effects!
The hourly UV Index reveals an intense progression of sun exposure throughout the day, reaching its peak at 2 PM with a striking level of 12. Starting from a minimal 1 at 7 AM and 8 AM, the index gradually rises, hitting 4 by 10 AM and soaring to 7 at 11 AM. By noon, the UV Index spikes to 10, urging caution for sun-seekers. The afternoon brings the highest risk, with 11 at 1 PM and a blazing 12 at 2 PM, before it begins to decline. Fortunately, from 3 PM onwards, the UV levels decrease to 10, then to 8 at 4 PM, 5 at 5 PM, and tapering down to 1 by 7 PM, signaling a safe reprieve from the sun's intensity. Stay vigilant during the midday hours to protect your skin!
| Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 08:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 09:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 10:00 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
| 11:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 12:00 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
| 13:00 | 11 | extreme | 10 min |
| 14:00 | 12 | extreme | 10 min |
| 15:00 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
| 16:00 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
| 17:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 18:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 19:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
Throughout the year, UV levels exhibit significant seasonal changes. January sees a moderate UV Index of 5, while February and March jump to 8 and 9, respectively, indicating very high exposure risks with short burn times of just 15 minutes. The peak months for UV exposure are from April to August, where the Index reaches an extreme level of 11 to 12, necessitating caution with a burn time of only 10 minutes. As the year progresses, UV levels decrease, but October remains notably high at 9, followed by November with a high category of 7. For visitors and residents alike, it is crucial to take protective measures during the high-risk months of April through September and remain vigilant, using sunscreen, wearing protective clothing, and seeking shade to minimize the risk of skin damage.
UV Risk Categories
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Piedras Negras | 5 | 8 | 9 | 11 | 11 | 12 | 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 |