Last updated: June 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors in San Cristobal, Mexico, where the climate can present significant risks of overexposure to ultraviolet (UV) rays. With maximum UV levels peaking at 14 during midday hours, awareness of these levels is essential in preventing sunburn and safeguarding your skin health. In San Cristobal's high-altitude environment, typical of its Aw climate zone, the sun's intensity can be deceptive, making it easy to underestimate the danger. Stay informed to enjoy the beautiful outdoors while protecting yourself from harmful UV exposure!
As the sun rises, UV Index levels begin low, at 1 at both 7:00 AM and 8:00 AM, making it a safe time for morning activities. By 9:00 AM, the index climbs to 2, still manageable for most outdoor enthusiasts. However, from 10:00 AM onward, the intensity escalates dramatically, peaking at an intense 14 from 1:00 PM to 2:00 PM. This is the moment to take caution, as the sun's rays are at their strongest—hitting a staggering 12 at 12:00 PM and gradually tapering off in the afternoon to 5 by 5:00 PM. As the day winds down, the UV Index dwindles back to 1 by 7:00 PM, offering a gentler wrap-up to a sun-drenched day. Stay protected during peak hours and enjoy the sunshine safely!
| Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 08:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 09:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 10:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 11:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 12:00 | 12 | extreme | 10 min |
| 13:00 | 14 | extreme | 10 min |
| 14:00 | 14 | extreme | 10 min |
| 15:00 | 12 | 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, the UV Index experiences notable seasonal changes, with the highest levels occurring from February to October. This period is characterized by an extreme risk of UV exposure, where the Index reaches a peak of 14 from April to July and remains high during surrounding months. January and November see a slight decrease to a very high exposure category, while December and October also become very high, with the UV Index dropping to 9. Visitors and residents are advised to take strict precautions, especially from February to October, when the burn time is as low as 10 minutes. It's essential to wear protective clothing, apply broad-spectrum sunscreen frequently, and seek shade during peak hours to minimize the risk of harmful UV radiation effects.
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 |
| San Cristobal | 10 | 12 | 13 | 14 | 14 | 14 | 14 | 13 | 13 | 12 | 10 | 9 |
| 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 |