Last updated: June 2, 2025
In El Bajio, Mexico, understanding the UV Index is crucial for protecting your skin and maintaining overall health, especially under its high sunny skies. With UV levels often reaching hazardous heights—such as a peak of 12 around midday—awareness of the UV Index helps residents and visitors alike in planning outdoor activities and preventing painful sunburns. El Bajio's climate, characterized by intense sun exposure, elevates the risk of skin damage, making it essential to stay informed about UV levels throughout the day. Prioritize your skin health and arm yourself with knowledge to enjoy the beautiful outdoors safely!
The UV Index dances through the day, peaking dramatically as the sun reaches its zenith. Starting the morning at a mild level of 1 at 07:00, the index slowly escalates to 2 by 08:00. As the clock strikes 09:00, it nudges up to 3, but the real surge begins at 10:00 with a jump to 6. The sun's fierce glow becomes undeniable by 11:00, reaching 9, and then it hits its apex at 12:00, soaring to 11—a clear signal to seek shade! By 13:00, it peaks at a sizzling 12 before gradually declining. The late afternoon sees a gentle slide down to 9 at 15:00, and the index softens to 6 by 16:00. As the day wanes, the UV levels drop, returning to a safe 1 by 19:00, offering a calm end to a sun-soaked day.
| Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 08:00 | 2 | 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 | 2 | 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 |