Last updated: May 3, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors in Matehuala, Mexico, where the climate often brings high levels of ultraviolet radiation. With peak UV levels reaching 14 during midday hours, awareness of these measures is essential for preventing sunburn and promoting long-term skin health. Given Matehuala's semi-arid climate, the risk of exposure to harmful UV rays is significantly elevated, making it important to take precautions, especially between 11 AM and 2 PM. Staying informed about the UV Index not only helps protect your skin but also ensures you can enjoy the sun safely while living life in this vibrant city.
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 varies significantly throughout the year, with the highest values observed from March to October, reaching an extreme level of 14 during the summer months (May through August). Visitors and residents should be particularly cautious from February to October, where burn times are as short as 10 minutes due to the extreme exposure category. January and November present a slightly lower UV index, categorized as very high, with a burn time of 15 minutes. By December, the UV index decreases to 7, making exposure risks lower, with a burn time of 25 minutes. It is essential for everyone to take protective measures against UV radiation, especially during the high-risk months, by wearing sunscreen, protective clothing, and seeking shade.
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 |
Matehuala | 8 | 11 | 13 | 14 | 14 | 14 | 14 | 14 | 13 | 12 | 9 | 7 |
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 |