Last updated: May 3, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is essential for residents and visitors in El Progreso, Mexico, where the sun shines brightly in its hot, tropical climate. Keeping an eye on UV levels is crucial for preventing sunburn and protecting skin health, especially during peak exposure times when UV radiation can be dangerously high. With maximum UV Index values reaching up to 13 between 12:00 PM and 2:00 PM, it’s important to be informed and take necessary precautions to enjoy the outdoors safely. By recognizing these UV levels, you can better protect yourself and your loved ones from the harmful effects of prolonged sun exposure.
The UV Index for the day presents a dynamic trajectory, peaking sharply around midday. Starting at a low of 1 at 7:00 AM, it gently rises to 3 by 9:00 AM. The intensity reaches high levels as it climbs to 5 at 10:00 AM, before surging to a staggering 12 by noon, indicating an increased risk for harm from unprotected sun exposure. The index continues to soar, hitting its zenith at 13 from 1:00 PM to 2:00 PM. Fortunately, a gradual decline begins in the late afternoon, lowering to 7 by 4:00 PM, and easing further to a 2 at 6:00 PM before tapering off to 1 by 7:00 PM. Sun safety is crucial during those peak hours, so stay protected and enjoy the sunshine responsibly!
| 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 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 12:00 | 12 | extreme | 10 min |
| 13:00 | 13 | extreme | 10 min |
| 14:00 | 13 | extreme | 10 min |
| 15:00 | 11 | extreme | 10 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 |
The UV Index varies significantly throughout the year, with the most intense levels occurring from February to October. The months of February, March, April, May, June, July, August, September, and October are classified in the extreme exposure category, with a UV Index peak of 13 during these months, resulting in a quick burn time of just 10 minutes. Conversely, January and November present a very high risk with a UV Index of 8 and 9 respectively, where burn times stretch to 15 minutes. By December, the UV risks reduce to high, with a burn time of 25 minutes. Residents and visitors should take special precautions during the high-risk months, including using broad-spectrum sunscreen, wearing protective clothing, and limiting sun exposure, especially from noon to 4 PM when the sun’s rays are strongest. Staying informed and prepared is essential to enjoy the outdoors safely.
UV Risk Categories
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| El Progreso | 8 | 11 | 12 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 11 | 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 |