Last updated: May 3, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is essential for residents and visitors of San Mateo, Mexico, where the sun can be both a blessing and a risk. With UV levels peaking at a significant 12 around midday, awareness of sun exposure is crucial in preventing sunburn and protecting your skin health. San Mateo's subtropical highland climate brings hot and sunny days, which can result in increased UV radiation. By keeping an eye on the UV Index, you can enjoy the outdoors while effectively minimizing the potential harm from the sun's rays. Stay informed, stay protected!
As the day begins, the UV Index starts at a refreshing 0 at 7:00 AM, indicating a safe level of sun exposure. However, by 10:00 AM, it surges to 4, signaling a shift in UV intensity. The sun climbs higher, peaking at 12:00 PM with a maximum index of 10—a critical time for sun safety. From this zenith, the UV Index fluctuates, hitting 13 at 2:00 PM before gradually decreasing to 6 by 5:00 PM. As dusk approaches, levels drop further to 1 by 7:00 PM, concluding the day's UV journey. It's a reminder of the sun's power and the importance of protecting your skin when the UV Index is high. Stay vigilant and enjoy the sunshine wisely!
| 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 | 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 |
Throughout the year, seasonal UV changes exhibit a significant shift, with the highest UV Index values occurring from March to September, categorized as extreme. Specifically, the months of March through August consistently show a UV Index of 13, translating to a quick burn time of just 10 minutes. January and February also present a high risk, with UV Index values of 8 and 10, respectively, while burn times remain at 15 minutes. As fall approaches, November drops to a UV Index of 9, and December further decreases to 7, allowing for longer burn times of 15 and 25 minutes. Visitors and residents are strongly advised to take extra precautions, especially between March and September, when the risk of sunburn is highest. This includes wearing sunscreen, protective clothing, and seeking shade during peak hours to ensure safety while enjoying outdoor activities.
UV Risk Categories
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| San Mateo | 8 | 10 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 12 | 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 |