Last updated: July 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index in Cihuatlan, Mexico is crucial for anyone who cherishes their skin health under the sun. With UV levels peaking at 12 during midday, awareness of these values plays a vital role in preventing sunburn and reducing the risk of long-term skin damage. Cihuatlan’s tropical climate brings consistent sunshine, leading to heightened exposure risks, particularly in the late morning and early afternoon hours. By staying informed about the UV Index, locals and visitors alike can take proactive measures to protect their skin and enjoy the stunning weather safely.
As the sun rises, the UV Index gradually climbs, starting at a safe 0 at 7:00 AM. By 8:00 AM, it reaches a mild 1, still a good time for outdoor enthusiasts to enjoy the morning. Things heat up more substantially by 10:00 AM with a 3, reaching a noticeable 6 by 11:00 AM. The intensity peaks at 12:00 PM, hitting a height of 9, and continues to soar to an impressive 12 at 1:00 PM—the prime hour for sun exposure. As the afternoon unfolds, the UV Index starts to decline, maintaining a strong 11 at 2:00 PM before tapering off. By 5:00 PM, it drops to 6, and as the sun sets, it relaxes back down to 3 at 6:00 PM, finally resting at 1 by 7:00 PM. It's vital to stay protected during those peak hours!
| Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07:00 | 0 | low | 45 min |
| 08:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 09:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 10:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 11:00 | 6 | high | 25 min |
| 12:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 13:00 | 11 | extreme | 10 min |
| 14:00 | 12 | extreme | 10 min |
| 15:00 | 11 | 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 seasonal UV index shows a significant variation throughout the year, with the highest values occurring from March to October. During these months, the UV index reaches extreme levels, peaking at 14 in June. The high-risk months are primarily from March to October, where the recommended maximum sun exposure time decreases to just 10 minutes for the most intense months, emphasizing the need for protection. Visitors and residents are advised to take extra precautions during these months by wearing sunscreen, protective clothing, and seeking shade, especially during midday hours when UV radiation is strongest. In contrast, as the year winds down, the UV index drops significantly, with November and December being relatively safer, though caution is still recommended.
UV Risk Categories
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cihuatlan | 9 | 10 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 14 | 12 | 12 | 13 | 12 | 8 | 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 |