Last updated: June 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for the residents and visitors of San Miguel Chimalapa, Mexico, where the sun's rays can be particularly intense due to its Aw climate zone. Awareness of UV levels not only aids in preventing painful sunburns but also plays a vital role in maintaining long-term skin health. With maximum UV Index values reaching up to 13 around midday, it’s essential to adopt protective measures. Whether exploring the natural beauty of Chimalapa or engaging in daily activities, being informed about the UV Index can help safeguard your skin from harmful effects while enjoying the sunny climate.
As the sun rises, the UV Index begins modestly at 1 between 07:00 and 08:00, signaling a gentle start to the day. However, by 09:00, it's on the rise to 3, hinting at the increasing intensity of UV radiation. The midday hours see a dramatic surge, peaking at a scorching 13 by 13:00. This period between 11:00 and 14:00 is particularly critical, with values soaring to 9 and 12, urging caution for outdoor activities. As the afternoon rolls in, the index gradually retreats, dropping to 11 at 15:00 and then declining further to 4 by 17:00, indicating a safe return to outdoor pursuits as evening approaches. The UV risk diminishes significantly by 18:00, resting at 2, before settling back to 1 as dusk falls. Stay sun smart and protect your skin during those peak hours!
| 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 | 13 | 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 |
The UV Index experiences significant seasonal changes, peaking from February through October. The highest risk months are March through July, where the index reaches 14, classified as extreme, necessitating a burn time of only 10 minutes. January and November have a very high index of 9 and 10, respectively, while December and October show slightly lower values at 8 and 11. Visitors and residents are advised to take precautionary measures during these high-risk months, including wearing protective clothing, using sunscreen with a high SPF, and seeking shade during peak sun hours to minimize the risk of skin damage from UV radiation.
UV Risk Categories
| 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 |
| San Miguel Chimalapa | 9 | 12 | 13 | 14 | 14 | 13 | 14 | 13 | 13 | 11 | 10 | 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 |