Last updated: August 1, 2025
Understanding the UV Index in La Colonia, Mexico is essential for safeguarding your skin while enjoying the region's warm, sunny climate. With UV levels frequently reaching extreme heights—topping out at 13 during midday—awareness can mean the difference between a fun day outside and painful sunburn. Monitoring the UV Index not only helps prevent immediate skin damage but also plays a crucial role in maintaining long-term skin health. Given La Colonia's tropical climate, where intense sunlight is a daily reality, knowing when to seek shade or slather on sunscreen is key to embracing the outdoors safely.
As the sun climbs higher in the sky, the UV Index soars to its peak intensity. Starting the day at a mild 1 at 07:00, the index gradually rises, reaching 2 by 09:00. However, things heat up as midday approaches, with a dramatic leap to 11 by 12:00 and topping out at an impressive 13 at 1 PM. The afternoon offers a slight reprieve, seeing values drop to 11 by 3 PM, before tapering off through the evening, ultimately settling back to a gentle 1 by 7 PM. If you’re planning outdoor activities, be sure to protect your skin during those peak hours!
Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
---|---|---|---|
07:00 | 0 | low | 45 min |
08:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
09:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
10:00 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
11:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
12:00 | 10 | very high | 15 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 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
18:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
19:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
The UV Index exhibits significant seasonal variation, with the highest values occurring from February through September, marking a period of extreme sun exposure. Notably, March through August are classified as high-risk months, featuring an extreme exposure category with a UV Index consistently at 12 or higher—which necessitates caution, as the burn time is a mere 10 minutes. Residents and visitors should prioritize sun safety during these months by wearing protective clothing, using broad-spectrum sunscreen, and seeking shade during peak hours. As the year progresses, a drop in UV intensity occurs, with October through December seeing lower levels that still warrant attention, particularly in October and November, when the UV Index registers as very high. Taking these precautions can help mitigate the risk of harmful UV exposure year-round.
UV Risk Categories
Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
La Colonia | 7 | 9 | 12 | 12 | 12 | 12 | 13 | 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 |