Last updated: July 2, 2025
In Santo Domingo Petapa, Mexico, understanding the UV Index is crucial for protecting your skin and overall health. The UV Index provides vital information on the levels of ultraviolet radiation in your area, informing residents about the potential risk of sunburn and long-term skin damage. Given the region's warm Aw climate, where sunshine is abundant, awareness of daily UV levels—especially during peak hours when the index soars to a maximum of 14—can help you take essential precautions. By staying informed, you can enjoy the beautiful sun while safeguarding your skin against harmful UV rays.
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 |
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.
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 |
| Santo Domingo 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 |