Last updated: June 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors in Santa Barbara de La Cueva, Mexico, where the sun's rays can be particularly intense. With UV levels often peaking at 14 during midday, awareness is vital to prevent sunburn and protect skin health. The town's arid BSk climate contributes to higher UV exposure, especially between 11:00 AM and 2:00 PM when the risk of skin damage is at its highest. By staying informed about the UV Index, you can enjoy the beautiful outdoors safely while safeguarding your skin against harmful effects.
The UV Index begins its day at a gentle level of 1 during the early hours, gradually rising to a more noticeable 3 by 09:00. The sun reaches its peak intensity around 12:00 with a striking 12, signaling caution for those venturing outdoors. The highest reading of 14 occurs at 13:00 and 14:00, representing the moment when sun protection is most critical. As the day progresses, the index starts to decline, falling to 6 by 17:00, and eventually returning to 1 by 19:00. This dynamic pattern emphasizes the importance of being mindful of UV exposure, especially during midday hours when the intensity is at its highest.
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 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
11:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
12:00 | 12 | extreme | 10 min |
13:00 | 14 | extreme | 10 min |
14:00 | 14 | extreme | 10 min |
15:00 | 13 | extreme | 10 min |
16:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
17:00 | 6 | high | 25 min |
18:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
19:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
The UV Index demonstrates significant seasonal changes, peaking during the late spring and summer months. From January to March, the index starts high but quickly escalates, reaching its maximum of 15 in both April and May. The months of February to October pose the highest risk, with an extreme exposure category, where the burn time is notably short at 10 minutes. Visitors and residents should be particularly vigilant during these high-risk months, especially from February to October, and adopt protective measures such as wearing sunscreen, hats, and protective clothing. As we approach the fall and winter months, the UV risk decreases but remains notably high in November and December. It is essential to stay informed and protect your skin year-round.
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 |
Santa Barbara de La Cueva | 9 | 11 | 14 | 15 | 15 | 14 | 14 | 14 | 14 | 12 | 10 | 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 |