Last updated: July 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors in Los Angeles, Mexico, where the sun can be both warm and unforgiving. Being aware of UV levels helps in preventing sunburn and maintaining skin health, especially in a climate zone like Los Angeles, where intense sunlight and high altitude can lead to elevated UV exposure. From the early morning hours to the peak midday sun, the UV Index can soar as high as 14, placing everyone at higher risk. So whether you're enjoying a day outdoors or just running errands, keeping an eye on the UV Index is essential to protect your skin and enjoy the sunny days safely.
As the sun rises, the UV Index begins its gentle ascent, peaking at 1 during the early hours at 07:00 and 08:00. By 09:00, it ramps up to a moderate 3, but as the clock strikes 10:00, the intensity surges to a more notable 5. The sun reaches its zenith around 12:00, where the index hits a staggering 12, hinting at the need for extra caution. The UV Index reaches its apex at 13:00 with a robust 14, before gradually tapering off to 8 by 16:00. As the day winds down, it descends to 4 at 17:00, eventually retreating to a safer 1 by 19:00. Ensure to protect your skin during those peak hours when the UV levels soar!
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 | 13 | extreme | 10 min |
15:00 | 11 | extreme | 10 min |
16:00 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
17:00 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
18:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
19:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
Throughout the year, the UV Index experiences significant seasonal changes with peaks during the warmer months. The high-risk months, characterized by an extreme UV Index of 12 or higher, occur from March to October, with July reaching the highest index of 14. During these months, the recommended burn time is notably low at just 10 minutes, underscoring the urgent need for effective sun protection. Conversely, January, February, and November exhibit a very high UV Index, allowing for a slightly longer burn time of 15 minutes. Residents and visitors are strongly advised to wear sunscreen, protective clothing, and seek shade during peak hours, particularly between March and October, to minimize the risks of UV exposure and skin damage.
UV Risk Categories
Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Los Angeles | 9 | 11 | 12 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 14 | 13 | 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 |