Last updated: May 3, 2025
In Ensenada, Mexico, being aware of the UV Index is crucial for enjoying the sun safely. Understanding the UV levels can significantly impact your skin health and help prevent annoying sunburns, especially during the sunniest hours of the day. With Ensenada’s BSh climate, characterized by warm and sunny weather, UV exposure can reach dangerous levels—peaking at a high of 12 around midday. By monitoring the UV Index, locals and visitors alike can better protect themselves and enjoy all that this beautiful coastal city has to offer without compromising their skin health.
The day begins gently with a UV Index of 1 at both 07:00 and 08:00, indicating minimal sun exposure. However, as the clock strikes 09:00, the index rises to 3, signifying a gradual increase in UV intensity. By 10:00, it reaches 5, and the sun takes center stage at 11:00 with a striking 8. The peak arrives at 12:00, soaring to an impressive 10, and continues to climb, hitting its pinnacle with a dazzling 12 at 13:00. As the afternoon unfolds, values begin a slow descent: 11 at 14:00, 10 at 15:00, and then dropping to 7 by 16:00. The evening brings relief, with the index tapering down to 4 at 17:00, 2 at 18:00, and finally returning to a safe 1 by 19:00. Remember to stay protected during those peak 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 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
| 12:00 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
| 13:00 | 12 | extreme | 10 min |
| 14:00 | 11 | 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 |
During the year, UV Index levels exhibit notable seasonal changes, with high-risk months concentrated from February to September. The highest readings occur in April to September, where the UV Index reaches 12, categorized as extreme, with a burn time of just 10 minutes. Particularly, months like February and March, registering UV Index values of 9 and 10 respectively, also signify significant risk, labeled as very high. Visitors and residents are strongly advised to take precautions during these months by using sunscreen, wearing protective clothing, and limiting sun exposure, especially during midday hours, to reduce the risk of sunburn and long-term skin damage. As the year transitions into November and December, the UV Index decreases to levels classified as high, but vigilance is still recommended to safeguard skin health.
UV Risk Categories
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ensenada | 6 | 9 | 10 | 12 | 12 | 12 | 12 | 12 | 11 | 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 |