Last updated: May 3, 2025
In Santiago Malacatepec, Mexico, being aware of the UV Index is crucial for safeguarding your skin health. Understanding UV levels is not just about preventing sunburn but also about mitigating the long-term effects of sun exposure. This picturesque town, characterized by its Aw climate, experiences significant UV intensity, especially during midday hours where indices can peak at 14—indicating extreme risk. Whether you're enjoying the outdoors or engaging in daily activities, staying informed about the UV Index can help you take the necessary precautions to protect yourself and your loved ones from harmful rays.
The UV Index fluctuates dramatically throughout the day, beginning at a low 1 at 07:00 and 08:00. As the sun climbs higher, the intensity increases, peaking at an impressive 14 by 13:00. This period, from 10:00 to 12:00, is particularly intense, with values soaring to 12 and 10 respectively. However, the afternoon sees a gradual decline, dropping to 11 at 15:00 and tapering off to a more manageable 4 by 17:00. By evening, the UV Index dwindles back to a safe 1 at 19:00, reminding us of the day's solar journey and the importance of sun safety during 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 | 10 | 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 |
Throughout the year, UV index levels fluctuate significantly, peaking during the late spring and summer months. From February to October, the UV index consistently remains in the extreme category, with the highest readings in April, May, June, and July, all reaching a UV index of 14 and a burn time of just 10 minutes. As such, March through October is deemed the high-risk period for skin damage and sunburn. Visitors and residents are strongly advised to take precautions, including wearing protective clothing, applying broad-spectrum sunscreen frequently, and seeking shade—especially during midday hours—to reduce the risk of harmful UV exposure. In contrast, November and December see a decrease in UV levels, transitioning to a very high category, but it’s still important to stay vigilant as burn times extend to 15 minutes.
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 |
| Santiago Malacatepec | 9 | 12 | 13 | 14 | 14 | 14 | 14 | 13 | 13 | 12 | 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 |