Last updated: May 3, 2025
Understanding the UV Index in San Rafael, Mexico is crucial for both residents and visitors, as it serves as a vital indicator of the sun’s intensity and potential health risks associated with prolonged exposure. With a climate classified as Cfa, characterized by warm summers and moderate temperatures, the UV levels can soar, especially between 11:00 AM and 1:00 PM, peaking at an intensity of 13. Being aware of these levels is essential in preventing sunburn and protecting skin health, ensuring that outdoor activities are enjoyable and safe. By keeping track of the UV Index, you can take informed precautions, such as seeking shade or applying sunscreen, thus safeguarding your well-being while soaking up the sun in this beautiful region.
As the sun rises, the UV Index begins its gradual ascent, with a modest 1 at 7:00 AM. By 9:00 AM, it reaches a mild 2, signaling the start of a more sun-intensive day. However, the real intensity kicks in around 11:00 AM, when the index skyrockets to 9. It's at 12:00 PM that the UV rays peak, soaring to an alarming 12, before holding steady at 13 from 1:00 PM to 2:00 PM. Though the afternoon sees a decline, with values dropping to 5 by 5:00 PM, the sun still packs a punch. As the sky darkens and evening sets in, the UV Index drops back to a safe 1 by 7:00 PM. Be sure to protect your skin during those midday hours when UV exposure is at its highest!
| Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 08:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 09:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 10:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 11:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 12:00 | 12 | extreme | 10 min |
| 13:00 | 13 | extreme | 10 min |
| 14:00 | 13 | extreme | 10 min |
| 15:00 | 11 | extreme | 10 min |
| 16:00 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
| 17:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 18:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 19:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
The UV Index exhibits significant seasonal changes, peaking during the warmer months. Starting in January with a UV Index of 8 categorized as very high, the risk escalates rapidly through March and April, reaching an extreme UV Index of 14 in July. The high-risk months are primarily from March to October, where the exposure category remains at extreme, with a quick burn time of just 10 minutes. November and December see a slight decrease in UV intensity, but caution is still advised due to very high exposure levels, particularly in November. Visitors and residents are strongly advised to use sun protection measures, such as sunscreen and protective clothing, during these peak months and limit sun exposure to maintain skin health.
UV Risk Categories
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| San Rafael | 8 | 10 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 14 | 13 | 13 | 12 | 9 | 7 |
| 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 |