UV Index in Petapa, Mexico

Last updated: May 3, 2025

Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors of Petapa, Mexico, where the sun's intensity can pose significant health risks. With UV levels peaking as high as 14 during the midday hours, it's vital to grasp how these values affect your skin health and sunburn risk. Petapa's Aw climate contributes to consistent and elevated exposure to harmful UV rays, making it essential to proactively protect your skin from the harsh sun. By staying informed about the UV Index, you can enjoy the outdoors safely while minimizing the risk of skin damage.

Hourly UV Index in Petapa

As the day unfolds, the UV Index rises dramatically, peaking at an intense 14 between 1 PM and 2 PM. Starting from a mild 1 in the early morning at 7 AM, sun exposure becomes more significant as the hours pass. By 10 AM, the index escalates to 6, and by 11 AM, it reaches 9, signaling the need for sun protection. At noon, the UV Index hits a scorching 12, a reminder that outdoor adventures should be approached with caution. Following the zenith at 1 PM, the levels gradually decline, falling to 7 by 4 PM and settling at a low 1 again by 7 PM. Stay safe and be sun smart during these peak hours!

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	3	moderate	30 min
10:00	6	high	25 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	7	high	25 min
17:00	4	moderate	30 min
18:00	2	low	45 min
19:00	1	low	45 min

Monthly UV Index Trends in Petapa

The UV index experiences significant seasonal fluctuations, reaching its peak between February and July, with values consistently classified as extreme (UV Index 12-14). The highest risk months are March, April, May, and July, where the UV index reaches 14, necessitating a very short burn time of just 10 minutes. Conversely, the winter months see a decline in UV exposure, with January, November, and December categorized as very high (UV Index 9-10) and allowing for slightly longer burn times of 15 minutes. It is crucial for both residents and visitors to take proper precautions during the high-risk months by wearing sunscreen, protective clothing, and seeking shade, especially during midday hours when UV radiation is most intense.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Petapa, Mexico

The monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) represents the highest UV radiation level recorded each month in Petapa. 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 Petapa, 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 Petapa UV Index with Other Mexico Cities

The table above highlights how UV exposure in Petapa 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.

Petapa'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
Guadalajara UVI	9	11	14	14	14	13	13	13	13	12	9	8
Petapa	9	12	13	14	14	13	14	13	13	12	10	9
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