Last updated: May 3, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is essential for residents and visitors in Ocotillo, Mexico, where the sun’s rays can be particularly intense due to the region's warm climate. With peak UV levels often reaching as high as 14 in the early afternoon, awareness of these fluctuations is crucial for protecting your skin from the harmful effects of ultraviolet radiation. By monitoring UV levels, you can take proactive steps to prevent sunburn and maintain overall skin health, ensuring your time outdoors is both enjoyable and safe. In Ocotillo, where sunny days are the norm, staying informed about the UV Index is key to safeguarding your well-being in this vibrant desert landscape.
The UV Index for the day reveals a clear pattern of increasing intensity as the sun climbs higher in the sky. Starting from a safe 0 at 07:00, the index gently rises to 1 at 08:00 and then to 2 by 09:00. However, as midday approaches, the readings spike dramatically, peaking at an intense 14 at 14:00. This midday heat marks the highest risk for sun exposure, with a staggering 11 seen at 12:00 and 13 at 13:00. The afternoon brings a gradual decline, with the UV Index dropping to 9 at 16:00 and continuing to decrease to 2 by 18:00. As the day transitions into evening, the risk subsides, settling at 1 by 19:00. This data underscores the importance of sun safety during peak hours, particularly between 11:00 and 15:00.
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 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
18:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
19:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
Throughout the year, ultraviolet (UV) exposure varies significantly, with high-risk months identified primarily from February to October. During this period, the UV Index consistently falls within the extreme category, peaking at 14 in May, June, and September, indicating a burn time of just 10 minutes. In contrast, January, November, and December see very high UV levels, with longer burn times of 15 minutes. It is crucial for both visitors and residents to practice sun safety during these months by wearing appropriate sunscreen, hats, and protective clothing, and seeking shade during peak sunlight hours. Being aware of these seasonal changes can significantly reduce the risk of skin damage and related health issues.
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 |
Ocotillo | 10 | 11 | 13 | 13 | 14 | 14 | 13 | 13 | 14 | 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 |