Last updated: June 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors in Ixtapa-Zihuatanejo, Mexico, a paradise known for its stunning beaches and vibrant sun. The UV Index indicates the strength of sun's ultraviolet (UV) radiation, helping you gauge the risk of sunburn and skin damage throughout the day. With Ixtapa-Zihuatanejo's tropical climate, high UV levels—especially from late morning to early afternoon—can pose significant risks for skin health if proper precautions aren’t taken. Being aware of the UV Index not only helps protect against immediate burns but also contributes to long-term skin care, ensuring you enjoy your time in this beautiful locale while minimizing health risks.
As the sun rises, the UV Index gradually climbs, starting at 0 at 7:00 AM—a safe time for outdoor activities. By 9:00 AM, it reaches 2, indicating a mild risk. However, as the day progresses, the intensity peaks at 12:00 PM with a high of 11, and again at 1:00 PM and 2:00 PM, both hitting an alarming 14. This represents a very high risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure, urging caution for those outdoors. The afternoon sees a slight drop, with the index falling to 9 at 4:00 PM and tapering off as the sun begins to set, closing out the day at 1 by 7:00 PM. Remember to stay protected during those peak hours!
| 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 | 14 | extreme | 10 min |
| 14:00 | 14 | 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 fluctuations, peaking in the late spring and summer months. From January to April, the UV Index rises sharply, reaching its maximum of 14 in June. The months of February to October are classified as high-risk, with burn times as short as 10 minutes during periods of extreme exposure. Visitors and residents should take precautions by wearing sunscreen, protective clothing, and seeking shade during peak sunlight hours, especially from February through September. As the year transitions into the cooler months of November and December, the UV Index drops to 9 and 8, respectively, indicating a decreased, yet still considerable, risk. It's essential to remain vigilant about UV protection year-round to minimize skin damage.
UV Risk Categories
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ixtapa-Zihuatanejo | 9 | 11 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 14 | 13 | 12 | 13 | 11 | 9 | 8 |
| 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 |