Last updated: May 3, 2025
Understanding the UV Index in Santa Maria la Alta, Mexico is crucial for safeguarding your skin and overall health. With high levels of ultraviolet radiation peaking between 11:00 AM and 1:00 PM, awareness of UV exposure can help prevent sunburn and long-term skin damage. This picturesque town, characterized by its Cwb climate, experiences significant UV intensity, especially during sunny days. By staying informed about the UV Index, residents and visitors alike can enjoy the beautiful outdoors while taking the necessary precautions to protect their skin from harmful effects.
The UV Index paints a vivid picture of the sun's intensity throughout the day, peaking dramatically by noon. Starting gently at 1 at 07:00, the index gradually rises, reaching 6 by 10:00. As the clock strikes 11:00, the UV intensity escalates to a robust 10, signaling the need for sun protection. The highest levels occur from 12:00 to 13:00, with a blistering maximum of 15 at 13:00. After this midday zenith, the index begins its descent, dropping to 14 at 14:00 and further declining to 12 by 15:00. As evening approaches, the UV levels soften, falling to 2 by 18:00 and finally settling back to 1 as the sun sets at 19:00. This data underscores the importance of vigilance during the peak hours to ensure skin safety in the sun.
| 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 | 14 | extreme | 10 min |
| 15:00 | 12 | extreme | 10 min |
| 16:00 | 8 | 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 |
| Santa Maria la Alta | 10 | 12 | 14 | 15 | 15 | 15 | 15 | 14 | 14 | 12 | 10 | 9 |