Last updated: July 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index in Real de Catorce, Mexico is crucial for protecting your skin and overall health. Given the region's arid BSk climate, residents and visitors alike face unique risks from elevated UV levels, particularly during peak hours when the index can soar to 14. Awareness of these UV levels is vital for prevention of sunburn and long-term skin damage. By staying informed and taking appropriate precautions, you can enjoy the stunning landscapes of this historic town while ensuring your skin remains healthy and safe from harmful solar radiation.
As the day unfolds, the UV Index peaks dramatically, showcasing nature's powerful rays. Early in the morning, at 7:00 AM and 8:00 AM, the index remains low at 1, offering a gentle start. However, by 10:00 AM, it surges to 5, marking the beginning of intensified sun exposure. The intensity escalates rapidly, reaching a striking 12 by noon, and hitting its zenith at 1:00 PM and 2:00 PM with an impressive value of 14. As the afternoon progresses, the UV Index begins its descent, dipping to 10 by 4:00 PM and cooling down to 3 by 6:00 PM. Finally, the sun’s grip loosens, returning to a safer 1 by 7:00 PM. Stay vigilant and protect your skin 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 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
| 12:00 | 12 | extreme | 10 min |
| 13:00 | 14 | extreme | 10 min |
| 14:00 | 14 | extreme | 10 min |
| 15:00 | 13 | extreme | 10 min |
| 16:00 | 10 | 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 variations, with the highest values typically recorded between February and October. During these months, particularly March through October, the UV Index reaches extreme levels, peaking at 15 in both April and May, providing only a brief burn time of 10 minutes. January and December are classified as very high with values of 8, allowing a slightly longer burn time of 15 minutes. As high-risk months, February to October demand increased awareness and protection methods to prevent sunburn and longer-term health issues. Visitors and residents are strongly advised to apply broad-spectrum sunscreen, wear protective clothing, and seek shade during peak hours to mitigate the risks associated with intense UV exposure.
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 |
| Real de Catorce | 8 | 11 | 13 | 15 | 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 |