Last updated: June 2, 2025
Awareness of the UV Index is crucial in Ocotlán de Venustiano Carranza, Mexico, where the combination of high altitude and sunny climate can elevate UV levels significantly. Understanding these levels is essential for ensuring skin health and preventing sunburn, especially during peak hours when UV radiation can be at its strongest— reaching a staggering 15 around midday. With a temperate climate (Cwb), residents and visitors alike are exposed to varying UV risks throughout the day. By keeping an eye on the UV Index, you can protect your skin and enjoy the beautiful outdoors safely.
The UV Index data paints a vibrant picture of sunlight intensity throughout the day. Beginning with a mild UVI of 1 at 7:00 AM, the day starts gently, gradually climbing to 3 by 9:00 AM. However, as the sun reaches its zenith, the UVI skyrockets, peaking at an intense 15 between 1:00 PM and 2:00 PM. During these hours, it's crucial to take protective measures against harmful UV rays. As the sun begins to set, the index dips, dropping to 5 by 5:00 PM and returning to a safer 1 by 7:00 PM. This fluctuation highlights the importance of staying sun-smart during peak hours, especially between 11:00 AM and 2:00 PM when the UVI 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 | 6 | high | 25 min |
| 11:00 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
| 12:00 | 13 | extreme | 10 min |
| 13:00 | 15 | extreme | 10 min |
| 14:00 | 15 | extreme | 10 min |
| 15:00 | 13 | extreme | 10 min |
| 16:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 17:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 18:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 19:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
The UV Index exhibits significant seasonal variation, with particularly high levels from February to September, where it consistently reaches extreme levels. The highest recorded UV Index occurs in March, April, May, June, and July at 15, signaling a 10-minute burn time for exposed skin. Visitors and residents should be especially vigilant during these months, taking precautions to protect their skin from potential sunburn and long-term damage. January, November, and December experience slightly lower UV Index values of 10 and 9, categorized as very high, allowing for a slightly longer burn time of 15 minutes. Regardless of the month, it is advisable to wear sunscreen, protective clothing, and sunglasses to ensure safety from harmful UV exposure throughout the year.
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 |
| 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 |
| Ocotlan de Venustiano Carranza | 10 | 12 | 14 | 15 | 15 | 15 | 15 | 14 | 14 | 12 | 10 | 9 |