Last updated: July 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for the residents and visitors of Valle de Vaquerias, Mexico, where the combination of a BSh climate and high elevations can significantly elevate UV exposure. The UV Index provides vital information about the strength of ultraviolet radiation, allowing individuals to take necessary precautions against sunburn and long-term skin health issues. With peak UV levels reaching an intense 13 around midday, it’s essential to be aware of these fluctuations. By monitoring UV levels, you can better protect yourself and enjoy the beautiful outdoors of Valle de Vaquerias while minimizing your risk of sun-related health concerns.
As the day begins, the UV Index starts off low, with values of 1 at 7:00 AM and 8:00 AM, making it a great time for early risers. However, as the sun climbs higher, the intensity increases sharply, reaching 5 by 10:00 AM. The peak comes at 12:00 PM, hitting a blazing 11, followed closely by a maximum of 13 from 1:00 PM to 2:00 PM. As we transition into the afternoon, the index gradually tapers off, descending to 6 by 5:00 PM and further down to 1 again by 7:00 PM. This gradual rise and fall underscore the importance of sun protection during those peak hours, especially between 11:00 AM and 2:00 PM, when the UV levels are at their highest.
| 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 | 9 | 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 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 | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Valle de Vaquerias | 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 |