Last updated: July 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors in Santa Maria Acapulco, Mexico, where the tropical climate brings plenty of sunshine and outdoor activities. With UV levels peaking at 14 during midday, awareness of these levels is essential for preventing sunburn and maintaining long-term skin health. As the sun climbs, so do the risks associated with excessive UV exposure, making it vital to plan outdoor activities wisely. Knowing the UV Index empowers you to enjoy the beautiful beaches and vibrant culture while protecting your skin from harmful radiation.
The UV Index data reveals a dynamic shift in solar intensity throughout the day. Starting off low at 1 in the early morning at 07:00, it gradually climbs, reaching maximum levels by midday. The peak occurs at 14:00, with a robust reading of 14, signaling the need for sun protection. As the afternoon progresses, values start to decline, dropping to 5 by the late afternoon and 3 by early evening. This pattern underscores the importance of being cautious during peak hours, particularly between 12:00 and 14:00, when UV exposure is at its highest.
| 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 | 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 | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Santa Maria Acapulco | 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 |