Last updated: June 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index in Canada and Mexico is crucial for protecting your skin from the harmful effects of ultraviolet radiation. With rising UV levels, recognizing when to take precautions can help prevent sunburn and promote long-term skin health. In Canada, particularly during the summer months, the UV Index can peak at 13, indicating a high risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure, especially around midday. Being informed about these varying UV levels not only safeguards your skin but also encourages responsible sun habits, allowing you to enjoy the beautiful outdoors safely.
The UV Index throughout the day reveals a striking pattern of increased solar intensity. Starting off at a mild 1 at 07:00 and 08:00, the risk begins to rise steadily, reaching a moderate 3 by 09:00. As the sun climbs higher, the index hits 5 at 10:00, escalating to a peak of 13 between 13:00 and 14:00—a point where caution is advised for outdoor activities. Fortunately, as the day transitions towards evening, the UV levels start to decline, dropping to 8 at 16:00 and further down to 1 by 19:00. This data emphasizes the need for sun protection during the midday hours, especially when the UV Index surges to its highest levels.
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 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
12:00 | 11 | extreme | 10 min |
13:00 | 13 | extreme | 10 min |
14:00 | 13 | extreme | 10 min |
15:00 | 11 | extreme | 10 min |
16:00 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
17:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
18:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
19:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
The UV index experiences significant seasonal variation, peaking during the spring and summer months. January and February show a very high UV Index of 8 and 10, respectively, with a burn time of just 15 minutes. However, from March through October, the indices reach extreme levels, peaking at 14 in April and July, where the burn time drops to just 10 minutes. High-risk months for UV exposure are March to October, making it essential for visitors and residents to take precautions, such as wearing protective clothing, using sunscreen, and seeking shade during peak hours. As we move into November and December, the UV Index decreases, though exposure risks remain; November is still very high at 9, while December sees a high index of 7 with a longer burn time of 25 minutes. Thus, vigilance is advised year-round, particularly from late winter to early autumn.
UV Risk Categories
Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Canada | 8 | 10 | 13 | 14 | 13 | 13 | 14 | 13 | 13 | 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 |