Last updated: August 1, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors in San Blas, Mexico, where the sun's rays can be intense, particularly during peak hours. By being aware of UV levels, you can take essential steps to prevent sunburn and protect your skin health. With a tropical climate that sees significant UV exposure—peaking at an index of 12 around noon—it's vital to stay informed and take precautions to enjoy the beautiful beaches safely. Whether you're lounging on the shore or exploring the vibrant surroundings, knowing when to seek shade or apply sunscreen can make all the difference in safeguarding your skin from harmful effects.
As the day unfolds, the UV Index begins low in the morning, peaking sharply around 12:00 PM with a striking 11. From there, it maintains a high level, reaching a maximum of 12 at 1:00 PM, before gradually falling as the afternoon progresses. By 3:00 PM, it dips to 9, signaling a decline in intensity. As evening approaches, the index returns to a more manageable 2 by 6:00 PM, ultimately settling at 1 as the sun sets. Remember to protect your skin, especially during those peak hours when the UV intensity reaches its highest levels!
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 | 8 | 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 varies significantly throughout the year, with high-risk months typically from February to September, where values reach their peak during April to August at an extreme level of 12. Visitors and residents should exercise caution during these months, especially due to the reduced burn time of just 10 minutes for peak exposure. Even in the earlier months like January, the UV Index of 6 poses a high risk, while October transitions to a lower but still significant 10, necessitating protective measures. To minimize the risk of sunburn and long-term skin damage, it is advisable to wear protective clothing, apply sunscreen regularly, and seek shade during peak sun hours, particularly between 10 AM and 4 PM.
UV Risk Categories
Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
San Blas | 6 | 9 | 10 | 12 | 12 | 12 | 12 | 12 | 12 | 10 | 7 | 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 |