Last updated: July 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors of Palos Altos, Mexico, where the combination of a Cwa climate and high sun exposure can pose significant risks to skin health. The UV levels here can peak notably around midday, with readings reaching a maximum of 13 between 1 PM and 2 PM, which can lead to quick and painful sunburns. By staying informed about the UV Index, you can take proactive steps to protect your skin, enabling you to enjoy the beautiful sunny days of Palos Altos safely. Whether you're lounging outdoors or exploring the vibrant local scenery, being aware of UV levels will help you avoid excessive exposure and maintain your skin’s health.
As the day unfolds, the UV Index rises steadily, beginning at a safe 0 at 07:00 and peaking dramatically. By 10:00, it escalates to 4, signaling the need for some sun protection. The intensity reaches 10 at 12:00, and then hits its maximum at 13:00 with a formidable 12. Right after, it slightly dips but remains high at 12 until 15:00. As the afternoon wanes, the UV Index begins to decline, dropping to 9 by 16:00, and continuing its descent to 1 by 19:00. This fluctuation highlights the importance of being sun-smart during peak hours, especially between 11:00 and 15:00, when the sun is at its strongest.
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 | 12 | 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 UV Index experiences significant seasonal variations, peaking from February to October with particularly high levels from March to October where it reaches extreme levels of 13 to 14, indicating a burn time of just 10 minutes. Notably, the highest UV Index values occur in March, April, and May. As the year progresses towards winter, the UV Index drops, with January and November marking very high exposure levels (UV Index 9) and longer burn times of 15 minutes, while December shows a slight decline to 8. For both residents and visitors, it is crucial to take preventive measures against UV exposure, especially during the high-risk months of February through October, by wearing protective clothing, applying sunscreen regularly, and seeking shade during peak sunlight hours to minimize the risk of skin damage.
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 |
Palos Altos | 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 |