Last updated: May 3, 2025
In El Chico, Mexico, staying informed about the UV Index is crucial for protecting your skin and overall health. Understanding the UV levels not only helps prevent painful sunburns but also plays a key role in reducing the long-term risks of skin damage and related health issues. With a climate characterized by high altitude and plenty of sunshine, El Chico presents unique challenges; during midday hours, UV Index values can soar to a striking 13. By keeping an eye on the UV Index, you can enjoy the beautiful outdoors while effectively safeguarding your skin against harmful UV radiation.
The UV index throughout the day reveals a dynamic pattern, starting from a low 0 at 7:00 AM and gradually climbing as the sun rises. By 10:00 AM, it reaches 4, signaling the start of potential sun sensitivity. As noon approaches, the intensity peaks dramatically at 12:00 PM with a UV index of 10, which is considered very high, urging outdoor enthusiasts to take protective measures. The afternoon hours continue to show significant UV levels, with a maximum of 13 at 1:00 PM and 2:00 PM, before slowly tapering off in the later afternoon and evening, dropping back to 1 by 7:00 PM. This data emphasizes the importance of sun safety, especially during the midday hours when UV exposure poses the greatest risk.
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 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
11:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
12:00 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
13:00 | 13 | extreme | 10 min |
14:00 | 13 | 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 seasonal UV changes exhibit a peak in exposure from February to October, with the highest UV Index occurring in April and September at a level of 14, categorized as extreme. January and November present a moderate risk with a UV Index of 9, while December and October show slightly lower levels but still indicate caution with an index of 8 and 12 respectively. Visitors and residents should be particularly mindful from February through October, with a burn time as brief as 10 minutes during these months. It is crucial to practice sun safety by wearing protective clothing, applying sunscreen regularly, and seeking shade, especially during peak sun hours. Don't underestimate the importance of UV protection even in the fall and winter months.
UV Risk Categories
Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
El Chico | 9 | 11 | 13 | 14 | 13 | 14 | 13 | 13 | 14 | 12 | 9 | 8 |
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 |