Last updated: July 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors in Papaloapan, Mexico, where exposure to harmful ultraviolet rays can peak significantly throughout the day. Awareness of UV levels not only helps in preventing painful sunburns but also plays a vital role in protecting long-term skin health. The region's tropical climate amplifies these risks, particularly during midday when the UV Index soars to a staggering 12 at noon, indicating extreme exposure. With Papaloapan’s typical sunny weather, being informed about UV levels can empower individuals to take necessary precautions and enjoy the outdoors 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 |
The UV Index demonstrates significant seasonal variations, with the highest risk months from February to October, when values frequently reach between 11 and 14, categorized as extreme. Notably, July experiences the peak UV Index of 14, requiring only 10 minutes of unprotected exposure for skin to burn. Conversely, January, November, and December present lower UV levels, dropping to 8 and 9, categorized as very high, allowing for slightly longer burn times of 15 minutes. It is essential for visitors and residents alike to remain vigilant during the extreme UV months by using sunscreen, wearing protective clothing, and seeking shade to minimize skin damage and sunburn risk.
UV Risk Categories
Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Papaloapan | 8 | 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 |