Last updated: August 1, 2025
In Costa Azul, Mexico, awareness of the UV Index is crucial for sun safety and skin health. Understanding UV levels can help you protect yourself from painful sunburns and long-term skin damage, especially during the peak hours of 11 AM to 3 PM, when the UV Index soars to a maximum of 12. With its sunny, tropical climate, Costa Azul presents a unique challenge, as the risk of harmful ultraviolet radiation increases significantly throughout the day. By staying informed about the UV Index, you can enjoy the beautiful beaches and vibrant outdoors while minimizing your exposure to harmful rays.
As the sun rises, the UV Index starts off low at a manageable 1 from 07:00 to 08:00. However, things heat up quickly as we move into the late morning; by 10:00, it spikes to 5, reaching 8 at 11:00. The peak intensity occurs at 12:00, with an impressive index of 11, closely followed by 12 at 13:00 and 14:00—the sun is at its strongest! A gradual decrease follows, dropping to 10 by 15:00 and continuing down to 4 at 17:00. As the day winds down, the index relaxes further to 2 at 18:00 and returns to a safe 1 by 19:00. It's clear that today's UV risk peaks around midday, so remember to stay protected during those exposed hours!
Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
---|---|---|---|
07:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
08:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
09:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
10:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
11:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
12:00 | 11 | extreme | 10 min |
13:00 | 12 | extreme | 10 min |
14:00 | 12 | extreme | 10 min |
15:00 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
16:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
17:00 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
18:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
19:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
The UV Index experiences significant seasonal changes, peaking during the summer months. High-risk months include February to September, with the months of April through September classified as having an extreme exposure category and a consistent UV Index of 12, where burn time is as little as 10 minutes. Visitors and residents are strongly advised to take precautions during these months, including wearing sunscreen with high SPF, protective clothing, and seeking shade during peak hours to reduce UV exposure. The UV Index begins to reduce in October, with a drop to 10 and remaining very high through November. By December and January, the exposure level returns to high, allowing for a longer burn time of 25 minutes. Staying aware of these variations is crucial for maintaining skin health throughout the year.
UV Risk Categories
Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Costa Azul | 6 | 9 | 10 | 12 | 12 | 12 | 12 | 12 | 12 | 10 | 8 | 6 |
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 |