Last updated: June 2, 2025
Awareness of the UV Index in La Palma, Mexico, is essential for residents and visitors alike, as it plays a crucial role in protecting against harmful ultraviolet rays. Understanding the daily UV levels is key to preventing sunburn and promoting overall skin health, especially in this region where the climate is categorized as BSk, characterized by its dry and sunny conditions. During peak hours, particularly between 12:00 PM and 2:00 PM, the UV Index can soar to dangerous levels of 12 to 14, posing significant risks for unprotected skin. Being informed about these levels can empower you to enjoy the beautiful La Palma sun while safeguarding your health.
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 |
La Palma | 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 |