Last updated: May 3, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors of Arenal del Centro (La Maquina), Mexico, where the sun's intensity can pose significant risks to skin health. With temperatures typical of a tropical wet and dry climate, the UV levels can soar, peaking at a staggering 13 between noon and 2 PM, highlighting the importance of sunburn prevention strategies. Being aware of these daily fluctuations not only helps you avoid painful sunburns but also fosters long-term skin health, ensuring you can enjoy all the outdoor beauty this vibrant area has to offer safely. So, whether you're soaking up the sun or exploring nature, keep a vigilant eye on the UV Index for a healthier, happier experience!
As the sun rises, the UV Index begins its ascent, starting at a gentle 0 at 7:00 AM. By 8:00 AM, it gains momentum, reaching 1, and continues to climb steadily. The intensity peaks dramatically at 12:00 PM, hitting a blistering 11, with the highest point recorded at 1:00 PM, marked at 13. This level signals a critical time for sun protection, as it remains at 13 until 2:00 PM. The afternoon sees a gradual decline, with the UV Index tapering off to 11 at 3:00 PM, before further dropping to 8 by 4:00 PM. By evening, the intensity diminishes significantly, settling to 2 at 6:00 PM and finally returning to a safe 1 by 7:00 PM. It's a vivid reminder of how crucial it is to stay vigilant about sun safety during the peak hours of 11:00 AM to 2:00 PM!
| 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 | 13 | extreme | 10 min |
| 15:00 | 11 | extreme | 10 min |
| 16:00 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
| 17:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 18:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 19:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
The seasonal UV changes indicate that from January to October, the UV Index remains consistently high, with several months categorized as extreme. The most critical months for UV exposure are February through October, where the UV Index peaks at 14 in April and June. **Burn times are notably short, often just 10 minutes, underscoring the necessity for caution. As November and December roll around, the UV Index gradually declines, but remains in the very high category, with burn times extending to 15 minutes. Visitors and residents should take proactive measures during high-risk months by wearing protective clothing, applying broad-spectrum sunscreen, and seeking shade during peak sun hours to minimize their risk of sunburn and long-term skin damage.
UV Risk Categories
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Guadalajara UVI | 9 | 11 | 14 | 14 | 14 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 12 | 9 | 8 |
| Arenal del Centro (La Maquina) | 10 | 11 | 13 | 14 | 13 | 14 | 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 |