Last updated: July 2, 2025
In Tlacotepec de Mejia, Mexico, awareness of the UV Index is crucial for safeguarding your skin against harmful solar radiation. Understanding UV levels can significantly reduce the risk of sunburn and long-term skin damage, promoting overall skin health. The region's Aw climate—characterized by warm temperatures and plenty of sunshine—exposes residents and visitors to varying UV risks throughout the day. During peak hours, especially between 11:00 AM and 2:00 PM, the UV Index can reach extreme levels, making it essential to take preventive measures and enjoy the sun safely.
As the sun rises, the UV Index begins at a mild 1 at 7:00 AM and remains low until 9:00 AM, when it escalates to 3. The real intensity kicks in around 10:00 AM, reaching 5, and the index climbs dramatically as the day progresses. By 12:00 PM, it peaks at a scorching 12, and an impressive 14 is recorded at both 1:00 PM and 2:00 PM. The sun starts to wane after that, with the index gradually dipping to 8 by 4:00 PM, before descending to a gentle 2 by 6:00 PM. The day concludes with a return to a low 1 at 7:00 PM, making it clear that midday sun poses the greatest danger – a reminder of the importance of sun protection during those 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 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 11:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 12:00 | 12 | extreme | 10 min |
| 13:00 | 14 | 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 |
Seasonal UV changes indicate that the highest levels of UV exposure occur from February to October, with a peak UV Index of 14 in both June and July, where the burn time is only 10 minutes. The months of March through October are categorized as extreme, posing significant risks for sunburn and skin damage. January, November, and December feature lower UV levels, with burn times extending to 15 minutes but still classified as very high. Visitors and residents should take precautions during the high-risk months, including wearing sunscreen, protective clothing, and seeking shade, particularly during midday hours when the sun's intensity is greatest. Prioritizing skin protection is essential to prevent harmful effects from overexposure to UV radiation.
UV Risk Categories
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tlacotepec de Mejia | 9 | 11 | 13 | 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 |