Last updated: June 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors of El Puerto Lazaro Cardenas, Mexico, especially in a climate known for its high levels of solar radiation. The UV Index provides essential information on sun exposure risks, helping you take proactive measures to prevent sunburn and long-term skin damage. With peak UV levels soaring to 14 around midday, it's vital to stay informed about daily fluctuations and protect your skin accordingly. El Puerto Lazaro Cardenas enjoys a BSk climate, which means that while the temperatures can be pleasant, the UV exposure can be intense and poses significant health risks. Being aware of the UV Index empowers you to enjoy the sun safely.
As the sun rises, the UV Index remains low at 1 from 7:00 AM to 8:00 AM, providing a gentle start to the day. However, by 9:00 AM, the intensity climbs to 3, prompting early risers to pay some attention to sun exposure. The real heat kicks in by 10:00 AM, hitting 6, and by 11:00 AM, it peaks at a staggering 9. The afternoon brings the highest UV risk, soaring to an eye-watering 14 at 1:00 PM and 2:00 PM, demanding vigilant sun protection. As the day winds down, the index starts to taper off, dropping to 6 by 5:00 PM and gradually falling to 1 by 7:00 PM. Always keep in mind to enjoy the sun safely during those peak hours!
| 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 | 12 | extreme | 10 min |
| 13:00 | 14 | extreme | 10 min |
| 14:00 | 14 | extreme | 10 min |
| 15:00 | 12 | extreme | 10 min |
| 16:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 17:00 | 6 | high | 25 min |
| 18:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 19:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
Throughout the year, UV index levels exhibit significant seasonal variation, peaking between March and July, where values reach an extreme level of 14 to 15. The months of February to October are particularly high-risk for UV exposure, with March, April, May, July, and August consistently maintaining an index of 14 to 15, demanding only 10 minutes of sun exposure before burn occurs. Conversely, December and January show a decrease in UV levels, categorized as very high, with longer burn times of 15 minutes. Visitors and residents should take precautions during the high-risk months by seeking shade, wearing protective clothing, and applying sunscreen to minimize skin damage from UV radiation.
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 |
| El Puerto Lazaro Cardenas | 9 | 11 | 14 | 14 | 15 | 14 | 15 | 14 | 14 | 12 | 10 | 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 |