UV Index in El Zarco, Mexico

Last updated: June 2, 2025

Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors in El Zarco, Mexico, where the combination of a tropical climate and high elevation can lead to significant sun exposure risks. Awareness of UV levels directly impacts sunburn prevention and long-term skin health, making it essential to plan outdoor activities accordingly. As El Zarco experiences peak UV indices reaching as high as 14 during midday, knowing when to seek shade or apply sunscreen can help safeguard your skin from harmful effects, ensuring you enjoy the vibrant outdoor lifestyle without the risks associated with excessive sun exposure.

Hourly UV Index in El Zarco

The UV Index showcases a dramatic rise throughout the morning, starting at a mild 1 at 07:00 and 08:00. However, by 10:00, it escalates to 6, signaling the need for protection against the sun. The peak occurs at 13:00 with a soaring 14, suggesting it’s crucial to seek shade and apply sunscreen. As the afternoon progresses, the UV Index gradually declines, dropping to 5 by 17:00 before settling back to 1 by 19:00. This pattern highlights the importance of being sun-safe during the midday hours when UV exposure is at its highest.

Average solar exposure data for the current time of the year. Actual values may vary and depend on many factors, such as cloud cover, vegetation cover, surface type, etc.
Time	UVI	Category	Time to Burn
07:00	1	low	45 min
08:00	1	low	45 min
09:00	3	moderate	30 min
10:00	6	high	25 min
11:00	9	very high	15 min
12:00	12	extreme	10 min
13:00	14	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	2	low	45 min
19:00	1	low	45 min

Monthly UV Index Trends in El Zarco

Throughout the year, UV Index levels exhibit significant seasonal variations, with the highest risk months occurring from February to October. During these months, particularly from March to October, the UV Index reaches extreme levels (up to 15), meaning that unprotected skin can burn in just 10 minutes. Additionally, January and November have very high UV levels, where the burn time increases to 15 minutes. Visitors and residents are strongly advised to take preventive measures, such as wearing protective clothing, applying broad-spectrum sunscreen, and seeking shade during peak sunlight hours, especially when the UV Index is at its highest. Keeping these precautions in mind will help ensure a safer experience when outdoors.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for El Zarco, Mexico

The monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) represents the highest UV radiation level recorded each month in El Zarco. It measures the strength of ultraviolet radiation from the sun and helps assess the risk of sunburn and UV-related health issues.

Data source: Statistical UV Index data for El Zarco, based on information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

UV Risk Categories

Extreme (11+): Avoid the sun, stay in shade.
Very High (8-10): Limit sun exposure.
High (6-7): Use SPF 30+ and protective clothing.
Moderate (3-5): Midday shade recommended.
Low (0-2): No protection needed.

Compare El Zarco UV Index with Other Mexico Cities

The table above highlights how UV exposure in El Zarco compares to other major locations across Mexico. This comparison helps travelers and residents better understand regional sun intensity and plan outdoor activities with sun safety in mind.

El Zarco's solar exposure compared to other cities in Mexico. Generated using Copernicus Atmosphere Monitoring Service information.
	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
El Zarco	10	12	14	15	14	14	14	14	14	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