Last updated: June 2, 2025
In Nuevo Vallarta, Mexico, understanding the UV Index is crucial for protecting your skin from harmful solar radiation. With its tropical climate and plenty of sunny days, the region poses significant risks for sunburn and long-term skin damage, especially during peak UV times, which can reach a staggering UV Index of 13 around midday. By being aware of daily UV levels, residents and visitors can take proactive measures to ensure their skin health, allowing for enjoyable outdoor activities while minimizing the risk of overexposure. Stay informed and stay safe under the sun!
As the sun rises, the UV Index begins its ascent, starting at a cool 0 by 07:00 AM. By 08:00 AM, it nudges up to 1, a gentle reminder of the UV rays to come. The intensity escalates quickly, hitting 2 by 09:00 AM and reaching 4 at 10:00 AM. Peak intensity is felt at 12:00 PM when it soars to an impressive 10, and it climaxes at 13:00 PM with a formidable 13—elicit caution for sun exposure. As the afternoon unfolds, the index slowly declines, tapering to 12 at 15:00 PM, then 10 by 16:00 PM. The late hours offer some respite, as it decreases to 6 at 17:00 PM, before settling back to a manageable 3 by 18:00 PM and dropping to 1 as the day draws to a close at 19:00 PM. Be sure to take advantage of the earlier hours to enjoy sunshine safely! 🌞
| 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 | 13 | extreme | 10 min |
| 14:00 | 13 | extreme | 10 min |
| 15:00 | 12 | 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 |
The UV Index exhibits significant seasonal variation, with the highest levels occurring from March to October, where exposure categories reach extreme status. March through August sees consistently high UV Index ratings of 12-13, resulting in a minimal burn time of just 10 minutes. Visitors and residents should be particularly cautious during these months, as the risk of sunburn is substantial. January and February also pose a risk with UV Index values near 10, categorized as very high, leading to a burn time of 15 minutes. As the seasons transition into November and December, the UV Index drops, but care should still be exercised. November has a UV Index of 9 (very high) with a burn time of 15 minutes, and December sees a further decrease to 7 (high), allowing for a slightly longer burn time of 25 minutes. To ensure safety, it is advisable to wear sunscreen, seek shade, and wear protective clothing during the high-risk months, especially from March to October when sun exposure can lead to serious skin damage in a short amount of time.
UV Risk Categories
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Nuevo Vallarta | 8 | 10 | 12 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 12 | 13 | 12 | 11 | 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 |