Last updated: June 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors of Zinacatepec, Mexico, where the combination of its Cfb climate and high elevation can lead to significant UV exposure. As UV levels peak throughout the day—reaching a staggering 15 at 1 PM—awareness of these fluctuations is vital for sunburn prevention and overall skin health. With the risk of harmful UV rays particularly acute from late morning to early afternoon, knowing when to seek shade and apply sunscreen can make all the difference in enjoying the beautiful sunny days while protecting your skin. Stay informed, stay safe!
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 |
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 |
| Zinacatepec | 10 | 12 | 14 | 15 | 15 | 15 | 15 | 14 | 14 | 12 | 10 | 9 |
| Puebla UVI | 10 | 12 | 14 | 15 | 15 | 15 | 15 | 14 | 14 | 13 | 10 | 9 |