UV Index in Zacatecas, Mexico

Last updated: May 3, 2025

In Zacatecas, Mexico, being aware of the UV Index is crucial for protecting your skin from harmful sun exposure. Understanding the levels of UV radiation not only helps prevent painful sunburns but also contributes to long-term skin health and reduces the risk of skin cancer. With its BSh climate, Zacatecas is known for its sunny days, which can lead to high UV readings, especially between 11:00 AM and 3:00 PM, when the index peaks at 12. By staying informed about the UV Index, residents and visitors can enjoy the beautiful outdoors safely while safeguarding their skin against potential damage.

Hourly UV Index in Zacatecas

As the sun rises, the UV Index slowly climbs, starting at a low 1 at 07:00 and 08:00. By 09:00, it slightly increases to 2. However, the real intensity kicks in as the day progresses, peaking at an impressive 12 between 13:00 and 14:00. This is the critical time when sun protection is essential, given the dangerous exposure level. As the afternoon wanes, the index starts to decrease, dropping to 10 by 15:00 and further declining to 5 at 17:00. Finally, as the sun sets, it returns to a mild 1 by 19:00. Take note of these fluctuations, as they are crucial for staying safe under the sun!

Average solar exposure data for the current time of the year. Actual values may vary and depend on many factors, such as cloud cover, vegetation cover, surface type, etc.
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	2	low	45 min
19:00	1	low	45 min

Monthly UV Index Trends in Zacatecas

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.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Zacatecas, Mexico

The monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) represents the highest UV radiation level recorded each month in Zacatecas. It measures the strength of ultraviolet radiation from the sun and helps assess the risk of sunburn and UV-related health issues.

Data source: Statistical UV Index data for Zacatecas, based on information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

UV Risk Categories

Extreme (11+): Avoid the sun, stay in shade.
Very High (8-10): Limit sun exposure.
High (6-7): Use SPF 30+ and protective clothing.
Moderate (3-5): Midday shade recommended.
Low (0-2): No protection needed.

Compare Zacatecas UV Index with Other Mexico Cities

The table above highlights how UV exposure in Zacatecas compares to other major locations across Mexico. This comparison helps travelers and residents better understand regional sun intensity and plan outdoor activities with sun safety in mind.

Zacatecas's solar exposure compared to other cities in Mexico. Generated using Copernicus Atmosphere Monitoring Service information.
	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Zacatecas	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