Last updated: July 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors in Platanillo, Mexico, where the tropical climate can elevate sun exposure risks significantly. With UV levels peaking during midday—reaching a staggering 13—awareness can help prevent sunburns and protect skin health. In this vibrant locale, where sunshine is abundant, neglecting the UV Index could lead to severe consequences for your skin. By knowing when to seek shade and applying sunscreen accordingly, you can enjoy Platanillo's beautiful outdoors safely and sustainably.
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 | 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 | 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 |
| Platanillo | 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 |