Last updated: May 3, 2025
In Tonalapa (Santa Barbara), Mexico, staying informed about the UV Index is crucial for protecting your skin and overall health. Understanding UV levels helps you take necessary precautions against sunburn and long-term skin damage, particularly in the region's diverse climate, classified as Cfa. With UV ratings peaking at a scorching 14 around midday, residents and visitors should be vigilant about their sun exposure. Being aware of these daily fluctuations empowers you to enjoy the beautiful sunshine safely, allowing for outdoor activities without compromising your skin's health.
The UV Index throughout the day paints a vivid picture of sun intensity, peaking dramatically around noon. Starting at a modest 1 at 7:00 AM, the index gently climbs to 3 by 9:00 AM, before hitting a striking 6 at 10:00 AM. As the sun rises higher, the UV Index reaches its zenith at 12:00 PM with a blistering score of 12, and then surges to a peak of 14 by 1:00 PM. The intensity begins to wane in the afternoon, dropping to 11 at 3:00 PM and further declining to 4 by 5:00 PM. As evening approaches, a safe 2 is reached by 6:00 PM, and the day ends with a gentle 1 by 7:00 PM. It’s a clear reminder to stay protected during the peak hours when the sun’s rays are at their strongest!
| 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 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 12:00 | 12 | extreme | 10 min |
| 13:00 | 14 | extreme | 10 min |
| 14:00 | 13 | extreme | 10 min |
| 15:00 | 11 | extreme | 10 min |
| 16:00 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
| 17:00 | 4 | 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 | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tonalapa (Santa Barbara) | 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 |