Last updated: August 1, 2025
In Ocotillo, Mexico, awareness of the UV Index is crucial for safeguarding your skin against harmful ultraviolet rays. With UV levels peaking between 11:00 AM and 1:00 PM, understanding these fluctuations can mean the difference between enjoying the sun and suffering from painful sunburns or long-term skin damage. Nestled in a warm climate zone, Ocotillo experiences high UV exposure throughout the day, making it essential to stay informed and take protective measures during peak hours. By monitoring the UV Index, residents and visitors alike can better protect their skin health and enjoy the vibrant outdoor lifestyle that this beautiful region has to offer.
The UV Index throughout the day offers a fascinating insight into sun exposure levels. Starting at a low point of 0 at 7:00 AM, it gradually rises, marking 1 by 8:00 AM and reaching a moderate 2 by 9:00 AM. As the sun climbs higher, the intensity peaks dramatically at 12:00 PM with an alarming 11, shortly followed by 13 from 1:00 PM to 2:00 PM, indicating a high risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure. The value then begins a steady decline, dropping to 12 at 3:00 PM, followed by a cooling 9 at 4:00 PM. By 5:00 PM, it retreats to 5, and as daylight wanes, it settles back into the low category with a 2 at 6:00 PM and finally 1 at 7:00 PM. For anyone planning outdoor activities, it’s crucial to take precautions during the peak hours, especially between 11 AM and 2 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 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
| 11:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 12:00 | 11 | extreme | 10 min |
| 13:00 | 12 | 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 |
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 |