Last updated: June 2, 2025
In San Felipe Zacatepec, Mexico, understanding the UV Index is crucial for protecting your skin and overall health. With a climate characterized by a temperate mountain environment, locals and visitors alike should be aware of the risks associated with high UV levels, especially between 10 AM and 3 PM when the index can soar to an extreme 15. This awareness not only helps in preventing painful sunburns but also plays a significant role in safeguarding long-term skin health. Stay informed about the UV Index to make the most of your time outdoors while keeping your skin safe from harmful exposure.
As the sun rises, the UV Index starts modestly at 1 at 07:00 and 08:00, perfect for early morning outings. However, by 09:00, it ramps up to 3, signaling the day's potential for sun exposure. The intensity escalates sharply, peaking at 15 between 13:00 and 14:00, making it crucial to seek shade and apply sunscreen during these hours. Following the midday intensity, there’s a noticeable decline, with the index falling to 5 by 17:00, then tapering off to 1 by 19:00. Plan your day wisely, and relish the sun's warmth while staying protected!
| 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 | 10 | 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 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 19:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
Seasonal changes in UV exposure reveal significant variations, with the highest levels typically observed from February to October. During this period, the UV Index reaches its peak of 15 in April, May, and June, indicating an extreme risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure with a recommended burn time of just 10 minutes. Visitors and residents should be particularly cautious during these high-risk months—March through October—when the UV Index consistently ranges from 12 to 15. To minimize the risk of skin damage, it’s essential to wear protective clothing, apply SPF sunscreen liberally, and seek shade whenever possible, especially during midday hours. As the season transitions into November and December, the UV Index gradually decreases, allowing for slightly longer burn times of 15 minutes in these very high exposure months, but caution is still advised.
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 Felipe Zacatepec | 10 | 12 | 14 | 15 | 15 | 15 | 14 | 14 | 14 | 12 | 10 | 8 |
| Puebla UVI | 10 | 12 | 14 | 15 | 15 | 15 | 15 | 14 | 14 | 13 | 10 | 9 |