Last updated: August 1, 2025
In Mexico Libre, Mexico, staying informed about the UV Index is crucial for safeguarding your skin health and preventing sunburn. With the region's Aw climate characterized by high temperatures and abundant sunshine, understanding UV levels becomes essential for outdoor enthusiasts and residents alike. The UV Index often peaks dramatically from midday to early afternoon, reaching levels that can pose significant risks for skin damage if not properly addressed. By being aware of these UV fluctuations, you can take proactive measures to enjoy the sun responsibly and protect your skin from harmful ultraviolet radiation.
As the sun rises at 07:00, the UV Index starts off at a safe level of 1, gradually climbing to 2 by 09:00. But as the clock strikes 10:00, the intensity ramps up significantly, reaching 5. The UV Index peaks at a scorching 13 between 13:00 and 14:00, signaling the most hazardous hours of the day. Afterward, it begins to taper off, dipping to 5 by 17:00, before winding down to 3 at 18:00 and finally returning to a minimal 1 by 19:00. To keep your skin safe during those midday hours, it's essential to take precautionary measures when enjoying the outdoors!
| 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 | 13 | extreme | 10 min |
| 15:00 | 11 | extreme | 10 min |
| 16:00 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
| 17:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 18:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 19:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
Throughout the year, UV index levels exhibit significant fluctuations, with the highest risk occurring from March to October, when values consistently reach extreme levels (UV Index 12-13). Notably, February marks the onset of very high UV warnings, transitioning into extreme categories by March and persisting through the summer months of June, July, and August. The burn time during these peak months drastically shortens to just 10 minutes, necessitating diligence in sun safety. Visitors and residents should take immediate precautions during these crucial months by seeking shade, wearing protective clothing, and applying sunscreen regularly to mitigate the risks of UV exposure. As the year draws to a close, November and December present high risk levels, with burn times extending again to 15 and 25 minutes respectively, though sun safety remains essential year-round.
UV Risk Categories
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mexico Libre | 7 | 9 | 12 | 12 | 12 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 12 | 11 | 8 | 7 |
| 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 |