Last updated: July 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors of Piedra Blanca, Mexico, where the sun shines brightly throughout the year. High UV levels can lead to sunburn, skin damage, and long-term health issues, making it essential to monitor daily UV exposure. With a tropical wet and dry climate, Piedra Blanca experiences significant solar intensity, especially during peak hours when the UV Index can soar to a staggering 14. By being aware of these UV levels, you can effectively protect your skin and enjoy the beautiful outdoors safely.
The UV Index of the day presents a clear story of rising intensity as the sun ascends. In the early hours, from 07:00 to 09:00, the index is low, peaking at 1, ideal for morning strolls. However, the sun grows stronger as noon approaches, with the index soaring to a striking 12 by 12:00, signaling high risk for unprotected skin. The peak intensity occurs between 13:00 and 14:00, where it reaches a maximum of 14—a critical time for sun safety. As the afternoon wanes, the UV Index gradually diminishes, dropping to 8 at 16:00, and further declining to 1 by 19:00. It’s a day underscoring the importance of sun protection, especially during the midday hours when UV exposure is at its highest!
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 | 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 | |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Piedra Blanca | 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 |