Last updated: May 3, 2025
In El Zapotalito, Mexico, understanding the UV Index is essential for safeguarding your skin and overall health. With the region's warm, sun-drenched climate, residents and visitors alike are at increased risk for sunburn and long-term skin damage if they are unaware of the daily UV levels. The UV Index typically peaks at a dangerous level of 14, indicating a very high risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure between midday and early afternoon. Staying informed about these UV levels not only helps in planning outdoor activities but also empowers you to take proactive measures for skin protection. Remember, while the sun can be inviting, your skin’s health should always be a top priority!
The UV Index displays a dynamic pattern throughout the day, starting off low at 1 during the early hours of 07:00 and 08:00. As the sun rises higher, the intensity escalates rapidly, peaking at a striking 14 between 13:00 and 14:00. This marks the period of greatest sun exposure, urging everyone to take precautions against skin damage. Following this peak, the index begins its descent, dropping to 11 by 15:00, and further declining to 2 by 18:00. Ultimately, it returns to a mild 1 at 19:00, signaling a safe end to a day filled with varying levels of UV radiation. Stay vigilant during those peak hours!
| Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 08:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 09:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 10:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 11:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 12:00 | 12 | extreme | 10 min |
| 13:00 | 14 | extreme | 10 min |
| 14:00 | 14 | extreme | 10 min |
| 15:00 | 11 | extreme | 10 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 |
The seasonal UV changes indicate a significant increase in ultraviolet radiation from January to October, with the highest levels occurring from March to June, where the UV Index reaches 14. This peak marks a critical period for sun exposure, categorized as extreme, with a rapid burn time of just 10 minutes. Notably, February to October consistently presents a high risk for sunburn, making it essential for both visitors and residents to exercise caution during these months. High-risk months include March, April, May, June, July, August, September, and October, when UV levels remain elevated, necessitating proactive sun protection measures, such as applying sunscreen, wearing protective clothing, and seeking shade during peak hours. As the year transitions into November and December, UV exposure drops but remains classified as very high, reminding everyone to stay vigilant.
UV Risk Categories
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Guadalajara UVI | 9 | 11 | 14 | 14 | 14 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 12 | 9 | 8 |
| El Zapotalito | 9 | 12 | 13 | 14 | 14 | 14 | 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 |