UV Index in Africa, Mexico

Last updated: May 3, 2025

In Africa and Mexico, awareness of the UV Index is crucial for safeguarding your skin against potential damage from excessive sun exposure. Understanding UV levels not only helps in preventing sunburn but also plays a significant role in promoting long-term skin health. With Africa's diverse climate—that often features intense and prolonged sunlight—residents and visitors alike must be vigilant about the fluctuating UV risks throughout the day. For instance, peak UV levels can reach as high as 13 around midday, underscoring the importance of sun protection during these critical hours.

Hourly UV Index in Africa

As the sun rises, the UV Index starts off gently, with a maximum of 1 at 07:00 and 08:00, making the morning hours safe for outdoor activities. However, by 10:00, the index climbs to 5, heralding the midday sun's arrival. The intensity peaks dramatically at 12:00 with a striking 11, reaching its zenith at 13:00 with an alarming 13. This is the time when sun protection becomes essential! As the afternoon wears on, the index begins to taper off, decreasing to 10 by 15:00 and gradually dropping to 4 by 17:00. The evening brings a return to calmer levels, settling back to 1 by 19:00. Remember to plan your outdoor activities wisely and protect your skin during those peak hours!

Average solar exposure data for the current time of the year. Actual values may vary and depend on many factors, such as cloud cover, vegetation cover, surface type, etc.
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	8	very high	15 min
12:00	11	extreme	10 min
13:00	13	extreme	10 min
14:00	12	extreme	10 min
15:00	10	very high	15 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

Monthly UV Index Trends in Africa

Throughout the year, UV exposure varies significantly, with the highest risk months being March through October. During this period, the UV Index peaks at 13, categorized as extreme, particularly from May to July, where the burn time is as short as 10 minutes. The risk remains high in August and September with an index of 12, followed by October at 11. Visitors and residents should prioritize sun safety, especially in these high-risk months, by seeking shade, wearing protective clothing, and applying sunscreen frequently. Conversely, the UV Index drops in the winter months, with December and January showing lower levels, although January and February still have very high ratings. Proper sun precautions are essential year-round to protect against skin damage.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Africa, Mexico

The monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) represents the highest UV radiation level recorded each month in Africa. It measures the strength of ultraviolet radiation from the sun and helps assess the risk of sunburn and UV-related health issues.

Data source: Statistical UV Index data for Africa, based on information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

UV Risk Categories

Extreme (11+): Avoid the sun, stay in shade.
Very High (8-10): Limit sun exposure.
High (6-7): Use SPF 30+ and protective clothing.
Moderate (3-5): Midday shade recommended.
Low (0-2): No protection needed.

Compare Africa UV Index with Other Mexico Cities

The table above highlights how UV exposure in Africa compares to other major locations across Mexico. This comparison helps travelers and residents better understand regional sun intensity and plan outdoor activities with sun safety in mind.

Africa's solar exposure compared to other cities in Mexico. Generated using Copernicus Atmosphere Monitoring Service information.
	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Africa	8	10	11	12	13	13	13	12	12	11	9	7
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