Last updated: August 1, 2025
In Tenepanigia (Santa Elena), Mexico, understanding the UV Index is vital for protecting yourself and your loved ones from harmful sun exposure. With varying levels of UV radiation throughout the day, being aware of these levels can help prevent sunburn, skin damage, and long-term health issues. The climate in this region is characterized as Cfa, which translates to warm summers and mild winters, often exposing residents and visitors to high levels of UV radiation, particularly between noon and 2 PM, when the UV Index peaks at an intense 14. Staying informed about the UV Index not only supports healthy skin but also enhances your outdoor experience in this sunny destination.
As the sun rises, the UV Index begins its climb from a gentle 1 at 07:00, nudging upwards to 2 by 09:00. By mid-morning, the intensity escalates to 5 at 10:00, signaling the need for some sun safety. The peak arrives at noon with a sizzling 12, reaching a blistering 14 by 13:00 and 14:00, marking the hours of most intense sun exposure. As afternoon fades, the UV Index gradually recedes to 12 at 15:00, before cooling further to 5 by 17:00, and finally winding down to 1 by 19:00. During the peak hours, make sure to stay protected and enjoy the sunshine responsibly!
| Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07:00 | 0 | 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 | 13 | extreme | 10 min |
| 15:00 | 11 | 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 |
Throughout the year, UV index levels vary significantly, with the highest risk months occurring from February to October. During this period, the UV index reaches extreme levels, peaking at 14 in May, June, and July, where the burn time is as short as 10 minutes. Notably, March and April also present extreme conditions, making it crucial for visitors and residents to take precautions. The months of November and December show a slight reduction with a UV index of 9 and 8 respectively, falling into the very high exposure category, suggesting that UV protection remains important even in winter. To stay safe, everyone is advised to wear sunscreen, protective clothing, and sunglasses, and to limit sun exposure during peak hours, particularly in the spring and summer months.
UV Risk Categories
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tenepanigia (Santa Elena) | 8 | 11 | 12 | 13 | 14 | 14 | 14 | 13 | 13 | 12 | 9 | 8 |
| 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 |