Last updated: May 3, 2025
In San Miguel el Alto, Mexico, being aware of the UV Index is crucial for safeguarding your skin against harmful ultraviolet radiation. With peak UV levels reaching 15 during midday hours, understanding these values can help you prevent sunburn and minimize long-term skin health risks. Given the region’s temperate highland climate (Cwb), residents and visitors alike face significant UV exposure throughout the day, especially between 11:00 AM and 2:00 PM. Staying informed about the UV Index not only promotes healthier outdoor activities but also fosters a culture of sun safety in this vibrant community.
The daily UV Index chart showcases the sun's intensity as the day unfolds. Starting from a gentle 0 at 7:00 AM, the index gradually climbs, reaching 1 by 8:00 AM. As the morning progresses, it gains momentum, hitting 5 at 10:00 AM. The peak intensity occurs at 12:00 PM with an impressive 12, followed closely by the highest reading of 15 at 2:00 PM, making this the most critical time for sun exposure. As the afternoon turns to evening, the UV Index declines, dropping to 10 by 4:00 PM, and further easing to 1 by 7:00 PM. This data highlights the importance of sun protection, especially during the midday hours when the UV levels are at their highest.
| 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 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 11:00 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
| 12:00 | 12 | extreme | 10 min |
| 13:00 | 14 | extreme | 10 min |
| 14:00 | 15 | extreme | 10 min |
| 15:00 | 13 | extreme | 10 min |
| 16:00 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
| 17:00 | 6 | high | 25 min |
| 18:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 19:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
As the seasons change, the UV Index reflects significant variations in sun exposure risk throughout the year. The high-risk months start in February and continue through October, where the UV Index consistently falls within the extreme category, reaching a peak of 15 in April and May. During these months, the recommended burn time is reduced to just 10 minutes, highlighting the urgency for protective measures. In contrast, November and December see a slight decline in UV levels, but the very high exposure category remains, especially in January with an index of 9. It is crucial for both visitors and residents to take precautionary measures during these months, such as wearing sunscreen, protective clothing, and sunglasses, to minimize the risk of sunburn and long-term 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 |
| San Miguel el Alto | 9 | 11 | 14 | 15 | 15 | 14 | 13 | 14 | 13 | 12 | 10 | 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 |