Last updated: July 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors of La Defensa, Mexico, a region characterized by its warm climate and abundant sunshine. With UV levels reaching a peak of 14 during the midday hours, being aware of these measurements is essential for sunburn prevention and overall skin health. High UV exposure can lead to serious skin damage over time, making it vital to check the UV Index daily. By staying informed, you can take proactive measures to protect your skin, enjoy the beautiful weather, and reduce the risk of long-term health issues associated with sun exposure.
The UV Index data for the day reveals a significant rise in sun exposure as the hours progress. Starting at 07:00 AM with a low index of 1, the intensity gradually increases, reaching 2 by 09:00 AM. However, the true peak occurs between 10:00 AM and 02:00 PM, where values soar to a staggering 12 at 12:00 PM and peak at 14 by 01:00 PM. As the afternoon wanes, the index begins to decline to 8 at 04:00 PM, before dropping to 2 by 06:00 PM and returning to a safe 1 by 07:00 PM. This data underscores the importance of protecting your skin during those midday hours when the UV radiation is strongest. Don't forget your sunscreen!
| 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 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 12:00 | 12 | extreme | 10 min |
| 13:00 | 14 | 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 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 19:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
Throughout the year, the UV Index experiences significant fluctuations, peaking during the summer months. From January to March, the UV Index rises progressively from 9 to 12, marking the start of higher sun exposure risks with burn times decreasing to 10 minutes by late winter. The months of April to September present the highest danger, with the UV Index reaching its max of 14 in July. The exposure category remains at extreme throughout this period, indicating a burn time of just 10 minutes. As we move into fall, the UV Index drops slightly but stays within the extreme category until October, before retreating to very high levels in November and December. Residents and visitors should exercise caution and take protective measures during high-risk months, particularly from March to October, when the potential for skin damage is considerably elevated. Always apply sunscreen, wear protective clothing, and seek shade during peak hours to minimize risks.
UV Risk Categories
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| La Defensa | 9 | 11 | 12 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 14 | 12 | 13 | 11 | 9 | 8 |
| 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 |