Last updated: May 3, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors in California, Mexico—a region known for its sunny, arid BWh climate. As UV levels can soar to a peak of 13 during midday hours, awareness of these fluctuations is key to preventing sunburn and promoting long-term skin health. With such intense exposure, it's essential to grasp how to protect yourself and loved ones from harmful rays—this knowledge allows you to enjoy California’s beautiful weather while safeguarding your skin. Stay informed and make sun safety a priority as you navigate the golden California sun!
At dawn, the UV Index begins its ascent, starting at a cool 0 at 7:00 AM. As the sun climbs higher, from 8:00 AM to 10:00 AM, it gradually rises to 4, indicating a low risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure. However, by 11:00 AM, a surge in intensity brings the index to 8, signaling a moderate level of UV radiation. The peak occurs at 12:00 PM and 1:00 PM, reaching a striking 11 and 13, showcasing a high risk that calls for protective measures. As the afternoon wanes, the index gently declines, hitting 12 at 3:00 PM before tapering off to 9 at 4:00 PM and finally falling back to 1 by 7:00 PM. It's a day where the sun demands both respect and vigilance!
| Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07:00 | 0 | low | 45 min |
| 08:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 09:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 10:00 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
| 11:00 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
| 12:00 | 11 | extreme | 10 min |
| 13:00 | 13 | extreme | 10 min |
| 14:00 | 13 | extreme | 10 min |
| 15:00 | 12 | extreme | 10 min |
| 16:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 17:00 | 6 | high | 25 min |
| 18:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 19:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
The UV Index exhibits significant seasonal variability, peaking during the warmer months. Notably, March through October marks a period of extreme UV exposure, with the highest readings occurring in April at an index of 14. The most critical months for sun exposure are February through October, where UV levels range from very high to extreme, with minimal safe burn times of just 10 minutes during the peak months. Visitors and residents are advised to take strong protective measures, such as applying broad-spectrum sunscreen, wearing protective clothing, and seeking shade during peak hours. In contrast, the winter months of January, November, and December present lower UV risks, with indices at 7 or 8 and safer burn times of 15-25 minutes. However, UV radiation can still be significant, so caution is recommended year-round.
UV Risk Categories
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| California | 7 | 10 | 12 | 14 | 13 | 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 |