Last updated: June 2, 2025
In San Marcos, Mexico, being aware of the UV Index is essential for safeguarding your skin from harmful sun exposure. Understanding UV levels not only helps in preventing painful sunburns but also plays a critical role in long-term skin health. With a dry semi-arid climate (BSk), San Marcos experiences significant UV radiation, peaking at an alarming Index of 14 during midday hours. This means that even a short time in the sun without protection can lead to adverse effects. Stay informed and proactive about UV exposure to ensure your sunny days are both enjoyable and safe!
The UV Index for the day paints a vivid picture of solar intensity. Starting off at 0 at 07:00, the sun gradually warms up, hitting 2 by 09:00. As the clock strikes 10:00, the index surges to a notable 5, marking the beginning of peak sun exposure. Things heat up significantly by 11:00, peaking at an impressive 14 by 14:00—the zenith of UV intensity. After this, a gentle decline begins, with the index easing to 12 at 15:00 and tapering off to 6 by 17:00. As the day winds down, the UV Index further drops to 3 by 18:00 and concludes with a 1 at 19:00—a gentle reminder to enjoy the sun wisely!
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 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
11:00 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
12:00 | 11 | extreme | 10 min |
13:00 | 13 | extreme | 10 min |
14:00 | 14 | extreme | 10 min |
15:00 | 12 | extreme | 10 min |
16:00 | 10 | 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 varies significantly throughout the year, with the highest values observed from March to October, reaching an extreme level of 14 during the summer months (May through August). Visitors and residents should be particularly cautious from February to October, where burn times are as short as 10 minutes due to the extreme exposure category. January and November present a slightly lower UV index, categorized as very high, with a burn time of 15 minutes. By December, the UV index decreases to 7, making exposure risks lower, with a burn time of 25 minutes. It is essential for everyone to take protective measures against UV radiation, especially during the high-risk months, by wearing sunscreen, protective clothing, and seeking shade.
UV Risk Categories
Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
San Marcos | 8 | 11 | 13 | 14 | 14 | 14 | 14 | 14 | 13 | 12 | 9 | 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 |