Last updated: June 2, 2025
In San Jose de Guaymas, Mexico, awareness of the UV Index is crucial for protecting your skin and overall health. Understanding UV levels not only helps prevent painful sunburns but also plays a significant role in reducing the long-term risk of skin damage and conditions like skin cancer. This coastal town, characterized by its hot desert climate (BWh), experiences intense sunlight, particularly as UV levels peak between 11:00 AM and 1:00 PM, reaching a severe index of 12. Taking precautions during these hours is essential for anyone looking to enjoy the beautiful beaches and outdoor activities while staying safe under the sun.
As the sun rises, the UV Index begins its climb, peaking at 12 around noon for maximum exposure. Starting from a low of 1 at 7:00 AM, it quickly escalates, hitting 3 by 8:00 AM and reaching a notable 5 by 9:00 AM. The intensity peaks at 11 between 11:00 AM and 1:00 PM, making it crucial to take protective measures during this time. Afterward, the index gradually descends, dropping to 10 at 2:00 PM, then steadily falling to 2 by 5:00 PM and returning to 1 by 7:00 PM. This hourly data highlights the importance of being sun-smart, particularly in the late morning and early afternoon when UV radiation is at its highest.
| Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 08:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 09:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 10:00 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
| 11:00 | 11 | extreme | 10 min |
| 12:00 | 12 | extreme | 10 min |
| 13:00 | 11 | extreme | 10 min |
| 14:00 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
| 15:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 16:00 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
| 17:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 18:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 19:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
Throughout the year, UV exposure varies significantly, with the highest risk months occurring from April to September, where the UV Index reaches extreme levels of 11-12 and the burn time is as low as 10 minutes. Notably, February and March also present a very high risk, with indices of 8-9 and a burn time of just 15 minutes. As such, it is crucial for both visitors and residents to take precautions during these months, including wearing broad-spectrum sunscreen, protective clothing, and UV-blocking sunglasses. In contrast, January, November, and December present moderate to high exposure levels, making it safer, with longer burn times of 25 to 30 minutes. Regardless of the season, awareness and proactive measures can help minimize UV damage.
UV Risk Categories
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| San Jose de Guaymas | 5 | 8 | 9 | 11 | 12 | 12 | 12 | 11 | 11 | 9 | 6 | 5 |
| 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 |