Last updated: June 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors of La Calera, Mexico, where the combination of high altitude and a warm, dry climate can lead to significant UV exposure. With peak UV levels soaring to a striking 14 around midday, awareness of these index values is vital for sunburn prevention and long-term skin health. By familiarizing yourself with the daily UV fluctuations, you can take proactive measures to protect yourself from harmful effects, ensuring that your time under the sun is safe and enjoyable.
As the day unfolds, the UV Index showcases a fascinating progression. Starting off at a gentle 0 at 7:00 AM, it gradually climbs to a modest 1 by 8:00 AM. The intensity picks up at 9:00 AM, reaching 2, and then takes a notable leap to 5 by 10:00 AM. The sun reaches its peak at 12:00 PM, where the index soars to a striking 11, signaling a high level of ultraviolet radiation. This intensity escalates further, hitting an impressive 14 at 2:00 PM—the highest point of the day. As the afternoon transitions to evening, the index begins to taper off, dropping to 12 at 3:00 PM, then sliding to 9 at 4:00 PM, and finishing the day at a soft 1 by 7:00 PM. It's a reminder for everyone to stay protected under the sun, especially 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 | 13 | 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 demonstrates a significant seasonal variation, peaking during the summer months with values consistently at 14 from May through July and 13 in August and September, categorized as extreme. This means that individuals have only 10 minutes before skin damage begins in these months, making them the highest risk periods for UV exposure. Conversely, January and February start with a UV Index of 9 and 11, respectively, still classified as very high but indicating a lower risk than mid-year. As such, it is crucial for both visitors and residents to exercise caution and take protective measures, particularly during the peak months. Wearing sunscreen, protective clothing, and seeking shade are highly recommended to minimize harmful effects from UV radiation all year round.
UV Risk Categories
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| La Calera | 9 | 11 | 13 | 13 | 14 | 14 | 14 | 13 | 13 | 11 | 8 | 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 |