Last updated: July 2, 2025
In Zaragoza (La Vaca), Mexico, staying informed about the UV Index is crucial for maintaining skin health and preventing sunburn. As a region with a BSk climate, characterized by hot summers and mild winters, residents and visitors alike must be aware of the UV levels throughout the day, especially when they peak from 11:00 AM to 2:00 PM with readings soaring up to 14. Understanding these risks empowers you to take proactive measures, ensuring your time under the sun is safe and enjoyable, while protecting your skin from harmful ultraviolet rays.
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 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 |
| Zaragoza (La Vaca) | 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 |