Last updated: May 3, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors in La Tinaja, Mexico, where the sun shines brightly and the risk of overexposure can lead to serious skin damage. Being aware of UV levels not only helps in preventing painful sunburns but also plays a key role in maintaining long-term skin health. With a tropical climate that often brings high UV exposure, La Tinaja typically experiences peak UV Index values around midday, reaching a maximum of 13 between 1 PM and 2 PM. This means that sun safety precautions are essential during these hours to protect your skin from harmful rays while enjoying the beautiful outdoors.
As the day unfolds, the UV Index reveals a dynamic shift in sun exposure. Early hours see a gentle start, with values of 1 at both 07:00 and 08:00. However, by 09:00, it climbs to 3, signaling an increase in UV intensity. The real peak occurs around midday, where the index soars to a scorching 12 at 12:00 and reaches its zenith with a striking 13 at 13:00 and 14:00—a reminder to seek shade and protect your skin. The intensity gradually wanes, dipping to 10 by 15:00 and then descending to 4 at 17:00, before evening settles in with a gentle 2 at 18:00 and returning to 1 by 19:00. Balancing safety with sun enjoyment is key as the day transitions from peak exposure to the soothing dusk.
| 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 | 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 | 10 | very high | 15 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 |
During the year, UV exposure levels fluctuate significantly, with high-risk months identified from February to September, where the UV Index remains at extreme levels (11-13) and the burn time is as short as 10 minutes. Particularly concerning are the peak months of March, April, May, June, July, and September, all categorized as extreme, indicating a strong potential for skin damage within minutes of exposure. Conversely, January and November exhibit very high UV levels (8 and 9, respectively), allowing for slightly longer burn times of 15 minutes. As we move into December, the UV Index drops to a high level (7), with a burn time of 25 minutes. To safely enjoy the sunny weather, it is advisable for both visitors and residents to take protective measures, such as wearing sunscreen, hats, and protective clothing, especially during peak UV hours from 10 AM to 4 PM in those high-risk months.
UV Risk Categories
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| La Tinaja | 8 | 11 | 12 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 12 | 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 |