Last updated: June 2, 2025
In La Parada del Zarcido, Mexico, staying informed about the UV Index is crucial for safeguarding your skin and overall health. Understanding the levels of ultraviolet radiation helps you to prevent sunburn and long-term skin damage, particularly in this semi-arid climate where UV exposure can spike dramatically. With midday levels reaching a staggering UV Index of 14, it's essential to take proactive measures against intense sun exposure. By knowing when to seek shade or apply sunscreen, you can enjoy the beautiful Mexican sun while prioritizing your skin’s health and wellbeing.
As the sun rises, the UV Index starts at a gentle 1 at 7:00 AM, indicating minimal sun exposure risk. By 9:00 AM, it climbs to 2, showcasing the gradual intensification of sunlight. The peak arrives at 12:00 PM with a striking 12, signaling a high risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure. This intensity continues through 1:00 PM and 2:00 PM, where it reaches its maximum of 14—a reminder to seek shade and apply sunscreen. As the afternoon progresses, the UV Index begins to taper off, dropping to 9 at 4:00 PM, and ending the day at a safer 1 by 7:00 PM. Stay sun-smart, especially during the peak hours!
| Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 08:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 09:00 | 2 | low | 45 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 | 12 | 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 exhibits significant seasonal variation, with the highest levels recorded from February to October, peaking at 15 in May. This period is classified as having an extreme exposure category, where even short sun exposure can lead to skin damage in just 10 minutes. High-risk months include February through October, with particularly intense UV radiation from March to September. Residents and visitors should take precautionary measures, such as wearing protective clothing, applying broad-spectrum sunscreen, and seeking shade during peak hours. In the higher-risk months, it is essential to remain vigilant about sun safety to minimize the risk of harmful UV exposure. As the year progresses into November and December, the UV Index decreases, but caution is still advised, especially during the bright sunny days.
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 |
| La Parada del Zarcido | 9 | 11 | 14 | 14 | 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 |