Last updated: May 3, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors in San Juan Cacahuatepec, Mexico, where the sun’s intensity can reach dangerous levels, especially during midday hours. With a tropical climate characterized by warm temperatures and high solar exposure, knowledge of UV levels is essential for protecting your skin from sunburn and long-term damage. Notably, the UV Index peaks at a staggering 14 around noon, making it imperative to be vigilant about sun safety. By staying informed about UV radiation, you can enjoy the beautiful outdoors while safeguarding your health.
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 |
The seasonal UV changes indicate that the months of January through October present the highest risks for sun exposure, with February to June being particularly critical, showcasing a UV Index ranging from 11 to 14 and an extreme exposure category. Notably, May and June maintain the peak UV Index of 14, and the burn time is reduced to just 10 minutes across these high-risk months. As autumn approaches, October remains a month of caution, featuring an UV Index of 11 before a gradual decline into the winter months, where November and December drop to 9 and 8, respectively. Residents and visitors should take proactive measures during these high-risk months, such as wearing protective clothing, applying sunscreen, and seeking shade during peak sun hours to mitigate the risk of sunburn and long-term skin damage.
UV Risk Categories
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| San Juan Cacahuatepec | 10 | 11 | 13 | 13 | 14 | 14 | 13 | 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 |