Last updated: August 1, 2025
In San Rafael, Mexico, staying aware of the UV Index is crucial for safeguarding your skin health and preventing sunburn. With a climate characterized by hot summers and mild winters, this region experiences fluctuating UV levels that can pose significant risks, especially during midday hours. Understanding and monitoring the UV Index can help you take essential precautions to enjoy the sun safely, avoiding the potential long-term effects of overexposure. For instance, with peak UV Index values reaching as high as 14 around midday, it's important to be equipped with proper sun protection and strategies to minimize your risk. By keeping an eye on UV levels, you can better protect yourself and make the most of the vibrant San Rafael sunshine!
As the sun rises, the UV Index starts off gently, peaking at 1 by 08:00. However, as the day progresses, the intensity ramps up significantly. By 10:00, the index reaches 5, but the real heat kicks in at 12:00, soaring to an intense 11. The peak occurs at 14:00, where it hits a blistering 14—a clear signal to seek shade and protect your skin. After this, the index begins to drop, settling at 12 by 15:00 and gradually descending to 3 by 18:00. As twilight approaches, the UV levels ease back to 1 by 19:00, marking a dramatic contrast to the midday sun's peak. Stay vigilant and wear sun protection during these critical 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 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 11:00 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
| 12:00 | 11 | extreme | 10 min |
| 13:00 | 13 | extreme | 10 min |
| 14:00 | 14 | extreme | 10 min |
| 15:00 | 12 | extreme | 10 min |
| 16:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 17:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 18:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 19:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
Throughout the year, UV exposure varies significantly, with the high-risk months occurring from March to October when the UV Index reaches extreme levels, peaking at 14 in May, July, and August. During these months, individuals are at highest risk for sunburn, with a burn time of just 10 minutes. Conversely, although January and February show a very high UV Index of 8 and 10 respectively, the burn time remains relatively short at 15 minutes. As the year progresses into November and December, the risk decreases, with a drop to a UV Index of 9 and 7, allowing for longer exposure times of 15 and 25 minutes before burning occurs. Visitors and residents are strongly advised to take precautionary measures, especially during the peak summer months by using sunscreen, wearing protective clothing, and seeking shade to minimize UV exposure and protect skin health.
UV Risk Categories
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| San Rafael | 8 | 10 | 13 | 13 | 14 | 13 | 14 | 14 | 13 | 12 | 9 | 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 |