Last updated: June 2, 2025
In Cozumel, Mexico, understanding the UV Index is crucial for protecting your skin from the sun's harmful rays. With the island's warm, tropical climate, UV levels can soar, peaking with an index of up to 14 during midday hours. This makes awareness of UV levels essential not just for preventing painful sunburns, but also for long-term skin health. By keeping an eye on the UV Index, you can enjoy the stunning beaches and vibrant outdoor activities Cozumel has to offer while minimizing the risks associated with excessive sun exposure. Stay informed, stay safe, and make the most of this beautiful destination!
The UV Index today showcases a dynamic journey through the hours, beginning with a gentle rise at 07:00 with a safe level of 1. As the sun climbs higher, a noticeable increase brings the index to 4 by 09:00, before peaking at an intense 14 around 13:00. This midday high of 13 is particularly important, signaling a period of significant UV radiation where protective measures are advisable. As the afternoon progresses, the index starts to dip, dropping to 6 by 16:00 and stabilizing at a comfortable 1 by 18:00. This hourly pattern highlights the importance of staying sun-safe during the intensity of the midday sun, while enjoying lower UV levels later in the day.
Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
---|---|---|---|
07:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
08:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
09:00 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
10:00 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
11:00 | 11 | extreme | 10 min |
12:00 | 13 | extreme | 10 min |
13:00 | 14 | extreme | 10 min |
14:00 | 12 | extreme | 10 min |
15:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
16:00 | 6 | high | 25 min |
17:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
18:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
19:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
The UV Index displays significant seasonal variations, with the highest levels occurring during the summer months from March through October. Notably, the extreme exposure category peaks in June with a UV Index of 14, alongside April, May, July, August, September, and October, when the index ranges from 12 to 13, resulting in a burn time of just 10 minutes. January and February also rank as high-risk months, with indexes of 8 and 10, respectively, highlighting the need for caution during the early year. As visitors and residents, it’s essential to take protective measures against harmful UV exposure, especially between March and October when the risk is at its greatest. Wearing sunscreen, protective clothing, and seeking shade during peak hours can mitigate the risks associated with high UV levels.
UV Risk Categories
Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Cozumel | 8 | 10 | 12 | 13 | 13 | 14 | 12 | 13 | 12 | 11 | 9 | 7 |
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 |