Last updated: July 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is vital for anyone enjoying the sun-soaked beauty of Tulum, Mexico. With its stunning beaches and vibrant outdoor lifestyle, being aware of UV levels is essential to prevent sunburn and protect your skin health. Tulum's tropical climate means that UV exposure can be particularly intense, especially during midday hours when the index can soar to a maximum of 12. By monitoring the UV Index, you can take proactive steps to ensure your time in this paradise remains both enjoyable and safe. Protect your skin today for a brighter tomorrow!
The UV Index today tells a compelling story of the sun's intensity as it rises and falls throughout the day. At 07:00, we start with a gentle UVI of 1, gradually climbing to 2 by 08:00. As the clock strikes 09:00, the intensity ramps up to 4, but it's not until 10:00 that we hit a significant level of 7. Midday thrill peaks at 12:00 with a commanding UVI of 12, remaining steady until 13:00 before it begins to wane. The afternoon brings a slight decline, with values decreasing to 9 at 15:00 and ultimately settling at a low 1 by 19:00 as the sun sets. This pattern underscores the importance of seeking shade and applying sunscreen during peak hours to enjoy the sun's warmth safely!
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 | 7 | high | 25 min |
11:00 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
12:00 | 12 | extreme | 10 min |
13:00 | 12 | extreme | 10 min |
14:00 | 11 | 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 |
Throughout the year, UV levels exhibit significant seasonal variations, peaking during the spring and summer months. March through October represents the highest risk period, with UV Index values consistently in the extreme category (10-14) and a dangerously low burn time of only 10 minutes. January and February maintain a very high risk, with a UV Index of 8-10 and a slightly longer burn time of 15 minutes. In contrast, November and December see a reduction in UV exposure, categorized as very high and high, respectively, with burn times extending to 15-25 minutes. Visitors and residents are strongly advised to take precautions during high-risk months by applying sunscreen, wearing protective clothing, and limiting sun exposure, especially between 10 AM and 4 PM when UV rays are most intense.
UV Risk Categories
Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Tulum | 8 | 10 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 14 | 12 | 12 | 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 |