Last updated: June 2, 2025
In San Antonio, Mexico, staying informed about the UV Index is crucial for maintaining optimal skin health and preventing sunburn, especially in a region characterized by a BSh climate that boasts intense sunlight year-round. As UV levels can soar to a maximum of 12 during peak hours, it’s essential to understand the risks tied to sun exposure, particularly between 10 AM and 4 PM when the sun’s rays are most harmful. By familiarizing yourself with the UV Index, you can take proactive measures to protect your skin, enjoy outdoor activities safely, and minimize potential long-term damage caused by excessive UV exposure.
At dawn, the UV Index starts at a mild 1 at 7:00 AM, gradually climbing as the sun rises. By 9:00 AM, it reaches a modest 2, but as the clock strikes 10:00 AM, the intensity surges to a moderate 5. The sun's power peaks around noon, with a striking 10, and maintains an impressive 12 from 1:00 PM to 2:00 PM. As the afternoon progresses, the index begins to decline, falling back to 10 at 3:00 PM, before tapering off to 5 by 5:00 PM. By evening, the UV Index drops to a comfortable 3 at 6:00 PM and settles back at 1 by 7:00 PM, signaling a safe respite from the sun's relentless rays.
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 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
13:00 | 12 | extreme | 10 min |
14:00 | 12 | extreme | 10 min |
15:00 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
16:00 | 8 | 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, UV Index values display significant seasonal variation, with higher risks typically occurring from February to September. The months of April through September highlight an extreme exposure category with a peak UV Index of 12, resulting in a very short burn time of just 10 minutes. Notably, February and March also present high to very high risks, contributing to the overall increase in UV exposure during spring. As we move into the colder months, October to December, UV levels decrease, though November and December still pose moderate risks with burn times of 25 minutes. To ensure safety, visitors and residents are advised to take precautions—wearing sunscreen, protective clothing, and seeking shade during peak hours, especially during the high-risk months of April to September.
UV Risk Categories
Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
San Antonio | 7 | 9 | 10 | 12 | 12 | 12 | 12 | 12 | 11 | 10 | 7 | 6 |
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 |