Last updated: May 3, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for protecting yourself from harmful sun exposure in Los Planes (Cerro Gordo), Mexico. With a Cfa climate characterized by its warm and sunny days, local residents and visitors must be aware of the varying UV levels throughout the day. High UV readings, especially between 10 AM and 2 PM, can lead to sunburns and long-term skin health issues, making it essential to take preventive measures. With peak UV Index values soaring to 15 during the midday hours, knowing when and how to protect yourself is key to enjoying the sun safely while embracing the region's beautiful climate.
The UV Index paints a vivid picture of the sun's intensity throughout the day, peaking dramatically by noon. Starting gently at 1 at 07:00, the index gradually rises, reaching 6 by 10:00. As the clock strikes 11:00, the UV intensity escalates to a robust 10, signaling the need for sun protection. The highest levels occur from 12:00 to 13:00, with a blistering maximum of 15 at 13:00. After this midday zenith, the index begins its descent, dropping to 14 at 14:00 and further declining to 12 by 15:00. As evening approaches, the UV levels soften, falling to 2 by 18:00 and finally settling back to 1 as the sun sets at 19:00. This data underscores the importance of vigilance during the peak hours to ensure skin safety in the sun.
| 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 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
| 17:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 18:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 19:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
The UV exposure varies significantly throughout the year, with January displaying a UV Index of 9, categorized as very high, indicating a burn time of 15 minutes. From February to October, the UV Index escalates sharply, peaking at 15 in May and July, falling under the extreme category with a dangerously low exposure limit of 10 minutes before tapering off in November and December. The high-risk months for UV exposure and potential skin damage are therefore from February to October, especially in the summer months. Residents and visitors are strongly advised to take protective measures during these periods, including wearing sunscreen, protective clothing, and seeking shade whenever possible to minimize the risk of sunburn and long-term 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 |
| Los Planes (Cerro Gordo) | 9 | 12 | 13 | 14 | 15 | 14 | 15 | 14 | 14 | 12 | 10 | 8 |
| Puebla UVI | 10 | 12 | 14 | 15 | 15 | 15 | 15 | 14 | 14 | 13 | 10 | 9 |