Last updated: May 3, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors in Xochimilco, Mexico, where the sun shines brightly throughout the year due to its Cfa climate classification. Awareness of UV levels not only helps in preventing sunburn but also plays an essential role in protecting skin health over time. With peak UV values soaring to 13 around midday, the risk of harmful exposure increases significantly, making it vital to take precautions during the sunniest hours. By staying informed about the UV Index, you can enjoy the beautiful canals and lush gardens of Xochimilco while safeguarding your skin from potential damage.
As the sun rises, the UV Index starts off gently, with a maximum of 1 at 07:00 and 08:00, making the morning hours safe for outdoor activities. However, by 10:00, the index climbs to 5, heralding the midday sun's arrival. The intensity peaks dramatically at 12:00 with a striking 11, reaching its zenith at 13:00 with an alarming 13. This is the time when sun protection becomes essential! As the afternoon wears on, the index begins to taper off, decreasing to 10 by 15:00 and gradually dropping to 4 by 17:00. The evening brings a return to calmer levels, settling back to 1 by 19:00. Remember to plan your outdoor activities wisely and protect your skin during those peak hours!
Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
---|---|---|---|
07:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
08:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
09:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
10:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
11:00 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
12:00 | 11 | extreme | 10 min |
13:00 | 13 | extreme | 10 min |
14:00 | 12 | 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 |
Throughout the year, the UV Index experiences significant seasonal fluctuations, with the highest levels occurring from February to October. The most high-risk months are generally from March to October, during which the UV Index remains in the extreme category at values of 12 to 13, indicating a burn time of just 10 minutes. Visitors and residents are advised to take extra precautions, such as applying sunscreen, wearing protective clothing, and seeking shade during these peak months to minimize the risk of skin damage. January and December offer slightly lower UV exposure, categorized as high, with burn times of 25 minutes and 15 minutes in November, making them somewhat safer for outdoor activities but still necessitating awareness.
UV Risk Categories
Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Xochimilco | 7 | 10 | 12 | 12 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 12 | 12 | 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 |