Last updated: May 3, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors of San Pedro Cuitlapan, Mexico, where the sun shines brightly and consistently throughout the year. Being aware of UV levels not only helps in preventing sunburn but also plays a significant role in maintaining overall skin health, especially during the peak hours from late morning to early afternoon when the index can reach extreme levels of 15. Given the warm, tropical climate of San Pedro Cuitlapan, the risks of excessive UV exposure are heightened, making it essential to stay informed and protect yourself from harmful rays while enjoying the beautiful outdoor scenery.
As the sun rises, the UV Index starts off gently, reaching a maximum of 1 by 7:00 AM. However, as the day progresses, it climbs dramatically, peaking at an intense 15 by 1:00 PM. The UV intensity is particularly strong between 11:00 AM and 2:00 PM, with values soaring to a staggering 13 at noon and 14 by 2:00 PM. After this midday surge, the index gradually drops, settling back to a moderate 5 by 5:00 PM and declining further to 1 by 7:00 PM. It's essential to protect your skin during those peak hours to ensure safe and enjoyable outdoor activities!
| Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 08:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 09:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 10:00 | 6 | high | 25 min |
| 11:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 12:00 | 13 | extreme | 10 min |
| 13:00 | 15 | 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 |
The seasonal UV changes show significant fluctuations throughout the year, with the highest risk months occurring from February to October, where the UV Index reaches extreme levels, particularly peaking in April and May at 15. During these months, the safe exposure time is reduced to just 10 minutes, highlighting the importance of taking precautions. Visitors and residents are strongly advised to avoid prolonged sun exposure during these months, especially between midday hours, and to consistently apply broad-spectrum sunscreen, wear protective clothing, and seek shade whenever possible. As the year progresses into November and December, the UV Index decreases to levels classified as very high, allowing for slightly longer exposure times of 15 minutes, but caution remains essential year-round.
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 |
| 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 |
| San Pedro Cuitlapan | 10 | 12 | 14 | 15 | 15 | 14 | 14 | 14 | 14 | 12 | 10 | 9 |
| Puebla UVI | 10 | 12 | 14 | 15 | 15 | 15 | 15 | 14 | 14 | 13 | 10 | 9 |