Last updated: June 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors of Santiago Xochimilco, Mexico, particularly given its Cwb climate, which features sunny days and high altitudes that increase UV exposure. Awareness of UV levels can help prevent sunburn and promote skin health, making it essential to check these levels before heading outdoors. With peak UV Index readings soaring to a striking 15 around midday, knowing when to seek shade or apply sunscreen is vital to protect your skin from harmful effects. Safeguarding your health while enjoying the beautiful canals and vibrant surroundings of Xochimilco can ensure that your experiences are both memorable and safe.
The UV Index today reveals a dynamic sun exposure pattern, peaking dramatically as the day unfolds. Starting at a low of 1 at 7:00 AM, it climbs steadily, reaching a moderate 3 by 9:00 AM. However, the real intensity kicks in around 11:00 AM, where the index surges to 10, signaling a high level of UV radiation. The maximum impact is felt at 12:00 PM with a staggering 13, followed closely by an astonishing 15 at 1:00 PM. As the afternoon progresses, the levels begin to taper off: 14 at 2:00 PM and 12 by 3:00 PM, leading into a gentler decline through the evening hours, ending the day at a cautious 1 by 7:00 PM. It's clear: the midday sun is not to be taken lightly, so don’t forget your sunscreen during 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 | 6 | high | 25 min |
| 11:00 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
| 12:00 | 13 | extreme | 10 min |
| 13:00 | 15 | 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 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 19:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
Throughout the year, UV Index levels exhibit significant seasonal fluctuations, with high-risk months typically from February to October. During this period, the UV Index peaks at 15, categorized as extreme, particularly from April to July, necessitating vigilant sun safety measures. In these months, the burn time is only 10 minutes, indicating a critical need for protective measures such as sunscreen, hats, and UV-blocking sunglasses. Conversely, November and December see a decrease in UV exposure, categorized as very high, with a lengthened burn time of 15 minutes in those months. Therefore, both visitors and residents are strongly advised to monitor UV levels regularly and take necessary precautions, especially during the warmer, sunnier months to minimize the risk of skin damage.
UV Risk Categories
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 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 |
| Santiago Xochimilco | 10 | 12 | 14 | 15 | 15 | 15 | 15 | 14 | 14 | 13 | 10 | 9 |
| Puebla UVI | 10 | 12 | 14 | 15 | 15 | 15 | 15 | 14 | 14 | 13 | 10 | 9 |