Last updated: May 3, 2025
In Rio de Tuxtla, Mexico, understanding the UV Index is crucial for safeguarding your skin and overall health. With high UV levels peaking at midday—reaching a remarkable 14 at 1 PM—awareness of these readings can help prevent painful sunburns and long-term skin damage. The region's tropical climate brings intense sun exposure, particularly during the warmer months, making it essential for residents and visitors alike to stay informed. By monitoring the UV Index, you can make better choices about sun protection, ensuring your time outdoors is enjoyable and safe.
Starting from the early hours of the day, the UV Index begins at a low 1 at 07:00, gradually climbing to 3 by 09:00. As the morning progresses, the intensity ramps up significantly, peaking at an impressive 14 around 13:00. The sun’s strength remains formidable, with a 12 at 12:00 and 10 at 11:00. After this midday apex, the UV levels start to decline—dropping to 11 by 15:00 and tapering to 4 at 17:00. As evening approaches, the index returns to a safe 1 by 19:00, signaling a gentle end to the day's solar exposure. It's essential to take precautions during the peak hours, especially between 10:00 and 14:00, when UV radiation is at its most intense.
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 | 12 | extreme | 10 min |
13:00 | 14 | 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 |
Throughout the year, UV exposure fluctuates significantly, with the highest risk months occurring from February to October when the UV Index peaks at 13-14 in the summer months. During this period, the burn time is incredibly short—only 10 minutes—indicating extreme exposure levels. Notably, March and April maintain a consistent UV Index of 12-13, reinforcing the need for heightened sun safety measures. January, November, and December present very high risk levels but offer slightly longer burn times of 15 minutes. To ensure safety, visitors and residents should seek shade, wear protective clothing, and regularly apply high-SPF sunscreen, especially during the peak months of February through October.
UV Risk Categories
Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Rio de Tuxtla | 9 | 11 | 12 | 13 | 13 | 14 | 14 | 13 | 13 | 11 | 9 | 8 |
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 |