Last updated: August 1, 2025
In the heart of El Bajio, Mexico, understanding the UV Index is crucial for safeguarding your skin against harmful ultraviolet rays. High UV levels, particularly during midday hours, can lead to serious consequences such as sunburn and long-term skin damage. With a climate that often features intense sunshine and elevated UV exposure, being aware of these levels is essential not just for outdoor enthusiasts but for anyone who spends time outside. By keeping an eye on the UV Index, you can make informed decisions to protect your skin and enjoy the beautiful El Bajio landscape safely.
The UV index throughout the day reveals a notable rise in solar intensity, peaking around noon. Starting off gently at 1 during the early hours, the index gradually ascends, hitting 3 by 9:00 AM. As the sun reaches its zenith, the **UV Index spikes dramatically to 11 at 12:00 PM and further climbs to an impressive 12 by 1:00 PM. After this peak, there's a gradual decline, with the value decreasing to 2 by late evening. This data highlights the importance of staying protected during the midday hours when UV exposure is at its highest, ensuring safety from harmful rays while enjoying the outdoors.
| 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 | 6 | high | 25 min |
| 11:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 12:00 | 11 | extreme | 10 min |
| 13:00 | 12 | extreme | 10 min |
| 14:00 | 11 | extreme | 10 min |
| 15:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 16:00 | 6 | high | 25 min |
| 17:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 18:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 19:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
Throughout the year, UV levels exhibit significant seasonal variations, with the highest risks occurring from February to September. During these months, the UV Index often peaks at 13, categorized as extreme, meaning that the time to burn can be as short as 10 minutes. Notably, March through July continues to present critical UV exposure levels, maintaining the extreme classification. As October approaches, the UV Index decreases to 10, still classified as very high, requiring caution. Residents and visitors are strongly advised to take protective measures such as wearing sunscreen, protective clothing, and seeking shade, especially during the peak exposure months. As winter approaches in November and December, UV levels drop, allowing for more comfortable outdoor activities but still warranting some precaution. Staying informed about the UV Index is essential for ensuring health and safety under the sun.
UV Risk Categories
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| El Bajio | 7 | 10 | 11 | 13 | 13 | 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 |