Last updated: June 2, 2025
In Santa Maria Zacatepec, Mexico, understanding the UV Index is crucial for safeguarding your skin health and preventing sunburn. With the region's Cwa climate, characterized by warm summers and mild winters, UV exposure can reach alarming levels, especially around midday when the index often soars to 15. Being aware of UV levels helps residents and visitors alike make informed decisions about sun protection, ensuring enjoyable outdoor activities without compromising skin safety. Stay vigilant and protect yourself from the sun’s harmful rays!
The UV Index today reveals a dynamic sun exposure pattern, peaking dramatically as the day unfolds. Starting at a low of 1 at 7:00 AM, it climbs steadily, reaching a moderate 3 by 9:00 AM. However, the real intensity kicks in around 11:00 AM, where the index surges to 10, signaling a high level of UV radiation. The maximum impact is felt at 12:00 PM with a staggering 13, followed closely by an astonishing 15 at 1:00 PM. As the afternoon progresses, the levels begin to taper off: 14 at 2:00 PM and 12 by 3:00 PM, leading into a gentler decline through the evening hours, ending the day at a cautious 1 by 7:00 PM. It's clear: the midday sun is not to be taken lightly, so don’t forget your sunscreen 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 | 13 | extreme | 10 min |
| 13:00 | 15 | extreme | 10 min |
| 14:00 | 14 | extreme | 10 min |
| 15:00 | 12 | 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 |
Throughout the year, UV Index levels exhibit significant seasonal fluctuations, with high-risk months typically from February to October. During this period, the UV Index peaks at 15, categorized as extreme, particularly from April to July, necessitating vigilant sun safety measures. In these months, the burn time is only 10 minutes, indicating a critical need for protective measures such as sunscreen, hats, and UV-blocking sunglasses. Conversely, November and December see a decrease in UV exposure, categorized as very high, with a lengthened burn time of 15 minutes in those months. Therefore, both visitors and residents are strongly advised to monitor UV levels regularly and take necessary precautions, especially during the warmer, sunnier months to minimize the risk of skin damage.
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 |
| Santa Maria Zacatepec | 10 | 12 | 14 | 15 | 15 | 15 | 15 | 14 | 14 | 13 | 10 | 9 |
| Puebla UVI | 10 | 12 | 14 | 15 | 15 | 15 | 15 | 14 | 14 | 13 | 10 | 9 |