Last updated: July 2, 2025
In San Nicolas Tolentino, Mexico, awareness of the UV Index is essential for safeguarding your skin against harmful ultraviolet rays. Understanding the daily UV levels not only helps in preventing sunburns but also plays a crucial role in maintaining overall skin health. With a semi-arid climate typical of the BSk zone, residents and visitors alike face heightened UV exposure, especially during the peak hours between 11 AM and 2 PM, when the index can soar to levels as high as 14. By staying informed, you can enjoy the sun safely while protecting your skin from the potential long-term effects of UV damage.
As the sun rises, the UV Index starts off gently, peaking at 1 by 08:00. However, as the day progresses, the intensity ramps up significantly. By 10:00, the index reaches 5, but the real heat kicks in at 12:00, soaring to an intense 11. The peak occurs at 14:00, where it hits a blistering 14—a clear signal to seek shade and protect your skin. After this, the index begins to drop, settling at 12 by 15:00 and gradually descending to 3 by 18:00. As twilight approaches, the UV levels ease back to 1 by 19:00, marking a dramatic contrast to the midday sun's peak. Stay vigilant and wear sun protection during these critical 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 | 11 | extreme | 10 min |
| 13:00 | 13 | 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 |
Throughout the year, UV exposure varies significantly, peaking during the spring and summer months. The high-risk months are March through October, where the UV Index remains in the extreme category, particularly April, May, and July with an index of 14. During these months, the recommended burn time is as short as 10 minutes, indicating a heightened need for protective measures. Conversely, January and February also present very high UV levels with indices of 8 and 10, respectively, requiring caution despite longer burn times of 15 minutes. Visitors and residents are advised to take precautions such as wearing sunscreen, protective clothing, and seeking shade, especially during peak sunlight hours from 10 AM to 4 PM, to minimize the risk of sunburn and long-term skin damage.
UV Risk Categories
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| San Nicolas Tolentino | 8 | 10 | 13 | 14 | 14 | 13 | 14 | 13 | 13 | 12 | 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 |