Last updated: June 2, 2025
In Xcanatun, Mexico, awareness of the UV Index is crucial for safeguarding your skin against harmful ultraviolet radiation. Understanding UV levels is essential not only for preventing painful sunburns but also for ensuring long-term skin health. With the region's Aw climate characterized by high temperatures and sunny days, the risk of overexposure is significant, particularly during peak hours when the UV Index can soar to 13. Being informed about these levels allows residents and visitors alike to take appropriate precautions and enjoy the sun safely.
The UV Index throughout the day showcases a dynamic rhythm of sun exposure. Starting the morning with a mild 1 at 7:00 AM, it steadily climbs as the sun rises higher, reaching 2 by 8:00 AM. A noticeable surge occurs by 9:00 AM, peaking at 10:00 AM with a robust 7. The intensity escalates to its maximum of 13 at both 12:00 PM and 1:00 PM, emphasizing the need for sun protection during these hours. As the afternoon progresses, the index begins to taper off, descending to 3 by 5:00 PM and finally winding down to a gentle 1 by 7:00 PM. This pattern highlights the crucial times to take precautions against UV exposure, making it key to enjoy the sun safely.
Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
---|---|---|---|
07:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
08:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
09:00 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
10:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
11:00 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
12:00 | 13 | extreme | 10 min |
13:00 | 13 | extreme | 10 min |
14:00 | 12 | extreme | 10 min |
15:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
16:00 | 6 | high | 25 min |
17:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
18:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
19:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
The UV Index experiences significant fluctuations throughout the year, with the highest risk months typically occurring from March to October. During this period, the UV Index reaches extreme levels, particularly peaking at 13 from March to July. This translates to a dangerously short burn time of just 10 minutes for unprotected skin. February also sees a high UV Index of 10, while January stands at 8, indicating very high exposure levels. As we transition towards the end of the year, November and December mark a decline, with indices of 8 and 7 respectively, accompanied by longer burn times of 15 to 25 minutes. Given these insights, it is crucial for visitors and residents to prioritize sun protection during the high-risk months, particularly from March to October, by wearing sunscreen, protective clothing, and seeking shade to reduce the risk of harmful UV exposure.
UV Risk Categories
Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Xcanatun | 8 | 10 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 12 | 12 | 11 | 8 | 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 |