Last updated: June 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors of Vicente Guerrero (San Javier), Mexico, where the sun shines brightly nearly all year round. With the area's semi-arid climate, the risk of harmful UV radiation is significant, particularly during midday hours when the index peaks at a blistering 14. Being aware of UV levels is essential not only for avoiding painful sunburns but also for safeguarding long-term skin health. Whether you’re soaking up the sun on the beach or enjoying outdoor activities, staying informed about the UV Index can help you take the necessary precautions to protect yourself and enjoy the vibrant Mexican sun safely.
As the day unfolds, the UV Index reveals an intriguing pattern of intensity. At 7 AM and 8 AM, it remains low at 1, perfect for a leisurely morning stroll. But by 9 AM, it begins to rise sharply, reaching a 3. The sun takes center stage around 10 AM, as the index jumps to 6, ramping up to a peak of 14 by 1 PM and 2 PM, marking the height of midday sun exposure. As the clock ticks towards late afternoon, the UV Index starts to decline: 12 at 3 PM, followed by 9 at 4 PM, gradually fading to 3 by 6 PM, and then settling back to 1 as the sun sets at 7 PM. It's a vital reminder to stay protected 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 | 13 | 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 |
The UV Index in the region exhibits significant seasonal fluctuations, peaking from February to October, with extremely high levels reached in March, April, May, June, July, August, and September, where the UV Index consistently registers at 14 to 15. These months carry a burn time of just 10 minutes, indicating a critical risk for sunburn and skin damage. Conversely, during January, November, and December, the UV Index falls to levels classified as very high (9 to 10), allowing for slightly longer exposure times of 15 minutes. Visitors and residents should exercise caution during the high-risk months (February through October), ensuring the use of sunscreen, protective clothing, and seeking shade during peak hours to safeguard against 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 |
| 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 |
| Vicente Guerrero (San Javier) | 9 | 12 | 14 | 15 | 15 | 14 | 14 | 14 | 14 | 12 | 10 | 8 |
| Puebla UVI | 10 | 12 | 14 | 15 | 15 | 15 | 15 | 14 | 14 | 13 | 10 | 9 |