Last updated: June 2, 2025
In San Nicolas de los Garza, Mexico, being aware of the UV Index is crucial for maintaining skin health and preventing sunburn. With a climate that typically enjoys abundant sunshine, locals and visitors alike face significant UV exposure risks, particularly during the mid-afternoon when levels soar to a potential maximum of 13. Understanding these UV levels is essential for safeguarding against harmful effects, as even brief unprotected sun exposure can lead to skin damage. By staying informed about the UV Index, you can take proactive measures to enjoy the sun safely and protect your skin year-round.
As the sun rises at 07:00, the UV Index starts off at a safe level of 1, gradually climbing to 2 by 09:00. But as the clock strikes 10:00, the intensity ramps up significantly, reaching 5. The UV Index peaks at a scorching 13 between 13:00 and 14:00, signaling the most hazardous hours of the day. Afterward, it begins to taper off, dipping to 5 by 17:00, before winding down to 3 at 18:00 and finally returning to a minimal 1 by 19:00. To keep your skin safe during those midday hours, it's essential to take precautionary measures when enjoying the outdoors!
| 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 | 13 | extreme | 10 min |
| 15:00 | 11 | extreme | 10 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 |
The UV Index displays significant seasonal variations, peaking during the late spring and summer months. From March to August, the UV Index reaches extreme levels (11-13), with the highest burn time dropping to just 10 minutes. The high-risk months for sun exposure are February through October, with March to August being particularly hazardous. Visitors and residents should take precautions during these months, such as seeking shade, wearing protective clothing, and applying sunscreen regularly. Conversely, the UV Index drops in January (7) and December (6), offering some respite, but even during these months, exposure is still considered high. Therefore, it's crucial for everyone to remain vigilant against UV radiation throughout the year.
UV Risk Categories
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| San Nicolas de los Garza | 7 | 9 | 11 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 12 | 12 | 11 | 8 | 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 |