Last updated: June 2, 2025
Being aware of the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors in San Miguel Totoltepec, Mexico, where the sun can be deceptively intense. Understanding UV levels helps in preventing sunburns and protecting skin health, especially during midday when exposure is at its peak. With a Cwb climate, the region experiences significant UV radiation, notably peaking at 12 to 14 around noon. This highlights the importance of taking precautions, such as wearing sunscreen and protective clothing, to safeguard yourself against harmful effects while enjoying the beautiful outdoors.
The UV Index throughout the day showcases a dynamic rise and fall in sun intensity. Starting off gently, at 7:00 AM, the index registers a low maximum of 1, gradually climbing to 3 by 9:00 AM. The sun's power peaks dramatically at 12:00 PM, reaching a sweltering high of 12, and continues to soar to an intense 14 from 1:00 PM to 2:00 PM. As the afternoon wears on, the index begins to descend, dropping to 9 by 4:00 PM and tapering off to a milder 5 by 5:00 PM. The evening brings a return to cooler levels, with values falling back to 1 by 7:00 PM. It’s a day where protection from the sun is crucial during the midday hours, especially when UV levels are at their peak!
| 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 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 19:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
Throughout the year, the UV Index demonstrates significant seasonal changes, peaking between March and September with values consistently classified as extreme (UV Index 15) and requiring minimal exposure for skin protection. The highest risk months are March, April, May, and September, where the UV Index reaches 15, indicating a burn time of just 10 minutes. Even in January and November, the UV Index remains high at 10, requiring careful sun exposure management. Visitors and residents are advised to take precautions during these high-risk months by wearing sunscreen, protective clothing, and seeking shade to minimize the risk of skin damage. Remember, even on cloudy days, UV radiation can still be intense, so staying vigilant is key.
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 |
| 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 |
| San Miguel Totoltepec | 10 | 12 | 15 | 15 | 15 | 14 | 14 | 14 | 15 | 12 | 10 | 9 |