UV Index in Zacatula, Mexico

Last updated: August 1, 2025

Understanding the UV Index is crucial for everyone in Zacatula, Mexico, where the sun shines brightly under a warm tropical climate. Recognizing the significance of UV levels helps protect your skin from harmful rays, preventing sunburn and long-term skin damage. With peak UV Index values soaring to 13 during midday, awareness of these levels is essential for enjoying the sun safely. Zacatula’s combination of tropical climate and high UV exposure risks makes it vital for residents and visitors alike to stay informed and take necessary precautions when basking in the sun.

Hourly UV Index in Zacatula

The UV index throughout the day reveals a dynamic pattern, starting from a low 0 at 7:00 AM and gradually climbing as the sun rises. By 10:00 AM, it reaches 4, signaling the start of potential sun sensitivity. As noon approaches, the intensity peaks dramatically at 12:00 PM with a UV index of 10, which is considered very high, urging outdoor enthusiasts to take protective measures. The afternoon hours continue to show significant UV levels, with a maximum of 13 at 1:00 PM and 2:00 PM, before slowly tapering off in the later afternoon and evening, dropping back to 1 by 7:00 PM. This data emphasizes the importance of sun safety, especially during the midday hours when UV exposure poses the greatest risk.

Average solar exposure data for the current time of the year. Actual values may vary and depend on many factors, such as cloud cover, vegetation cover, surface type, etc.
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	10	very high	15 min
13:00	12	extreme	10 min
14:00	12	extreme	10 min
15:00	11	extreme	10 min
16:00	8	very high	15 min
17:00	5	moderate	30 min
18:00	3	moderate	30 min
19:00	1	low	45 min

Monthly UV Index Trends in Zacatula

The UV Index exhibits significant seasonal fluctuations, peaking in the late spring and summer months. From January to April, the UV Index rises sharply, reaching its maximum of 14 in June. The months of February to October are classified as high-risk, with burn times as short as 10 minutes during periods of extreme exposure. Visitors and residents should take precautions by wearing sunscreen, protective clothing, and seeking shade during peak sunlight hours, especially from February through September. As the year transitions into the cooler months of November and December, the UV Index drops to 9 and 8, respectively, indicating a decreased, yet still considerable, risk. It's essential to remain vigilant about UV protection year-round to minimize skin damage.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Zacatula, Mexico

The monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) represents the highest UV radiation level recorded each month in Zacatula. It measures the strength of ultraviolet radiation from the sun and helps assess the risk of sunburn and UV-related health issues.

Data source: Statistical UV Index data for Zacatula, based on information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

UV Risk Categories

Extreme (11+): Avoid the sun, stay in shade.
Very High (8-10): Limit sun exposure.
High (6-7): Use SPF 30+ and protective clothing.
Moderate (3-5): Midday shade recommended.
Low (0-2): No protection needed.

Compare Zacatula UV Index with Other Mexico Cities

The table above highlights how UV exposure in Zacatula compares to other major locations across Mexico. This comparison helps travelers and residents better understand regional sun intensity and plan outdoor activities with sun safety in mind.

Zacatula's solar exposure compared to other cities in Mexico. Generated using Copernicus Atmosphere Monitoring Service information.
	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Zacatula	9	11	13	13	13	14	13	12	13	11	9	8
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
Puebla UVI	10	12	14	15	15	15	15	14	14	13	10	9