Last updated: July 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors of Mexico City, where the high altitude and sunny climate significantly elevate UV radiation risks. Awareness of UV levels is not just about preventing painful sunburns; it plays a vital role in safeguarding your skin health over time. During peak hours, particularly from 11:00 AM to 2:00 PM, the UV Index can soar to extreme levels, reaching up to 14—a reminder that the sun's rays can be particularly fierce in this charming Cwb climate zone. Being informed about the UV Index empowers you to enjoy the sunny days in Mexico City while taking the necessary precautions to protect yourself from harmful exposure.
The UV Index data reveals a dynamic shift in solar intensity throughout the day. Starting off low at 1 in the early morning at 07:00, it gradually climbs, reaching maximum levels by midday. The peak occurs at 14:00, with a robust reading of 14, signaling the need for sun protection. As the afternoon progresses, values start to decline, dropping to 5 by the late afternoon and 3 by early evening. This pattern underscores the importance of being cautious during peak hours, particularly between 12:00 and 14:00, when UV exposure is at its highest.
Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
---|---|---|---|
07:00 | 1 | 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 | 11 | extreme | 10 min |
13:00 | 13 | extreme | 10 min |
14:00 | 14 | extreme | 10 min |
15:00 | 12 | extreme | 10 min |
16:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
17:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
18:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
19:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
The UV Index experiences significant seasonal changes, with the highest readings occurring from February to September, where the index reaches extreme levels of 12 to 15. March through October are identified as particularly high-risk months, with the burn time consistently dropping to just 10 minutes, emphasizing the need for protective measures. As summer approaches, residents and visitors are strongly advised to take precautions such as wearing sunscreen, protective clothing, and seeking shade during peak hours to minimize skin damage. Come November and December, the UV Index decreases to 10 and 8 respectively, but caution is still recommended as the exposure remains categorized as very high. Always prioritize sun safety to ensure a healthy experience outdoors.
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 |
Iztapalapa UVI | 10 | 12 | 14 | 15 | 14 | 14 | 14 | 14 | 14 | 12 | 10 | 8 |
Mexico City | 10 | 12 | 14 | 15 | 15 | 14 | 14 | 13 | 14 | 12 | 10 | 8 |
Ecatepec de Morelos 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 |