Last updated: June 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors of Santa Maria de la Paz, Mexico, where basking in the sun is a common delight. With its Cwb climate, the region experiences significant UV exposure, especially during peak hours when UV levels can soar to a striking 14 around midday. Awareness of these levels not only aids in preventing sunburn but also plays a vital role in maintaining long-term skin health. By keeping an eye on the UV Index, you can enjoy the beautiful outdoors while effectively protecting yourself from harmful effects of the sun's rays.
As the day unfolds, the UV Index rises dramatically, beginning with a gentle 0 at 07:00. By 09:00, it reaches a modest 2, but the real intensity kicks in as the sun climbs higher. At 11:00, the index peaks at an impressive 8, and then skyrockets to a maximum of 14 by 14:00. This mid-afternoon zenith signals a critical time for sun safety, with both 12:00 and 13:00 hovering at 11 and 13, respectively. As evening approaches, the UV exposure begins to wane, descending to a comfortable 6 at 17:00, before tapering off to a mere 1 by 19:00. Enjoy the sun, but remember to protect yourself during those peak hours! 🌞
| Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07:00 | 0 | low | 45 min |
| 08:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 09:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 10:00 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
| 11:00 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
| 12:00 | 11 | extreme | 10 min |
| 13:00 | 13 | extreme | 10 min |
| 14:00 | 14 | extreme | 10 min |
| 15:00 | 12 | extreme | 10 min |
| 16:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 17:00 | 6 | high | 25 min |
| 18:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 19:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
During the year, UV exposure varies significantly, with extremely high levels prevalent from February through October. The months of March to April, peaking at a UV Index of 15, are particularly intense, requiring vigilant sun protection. January experiences a very high exposure level with a UV Index of 9, while November and December return to a very high category, albeit with lower figures. Visitors and residents are strongly advised to take appropriate precautions during high-risk months, such as wearing protective clothing, applying sunscreen frequently, and seeking shade, especially when the burn time is as short as 10 minutes in the summer months. Staying informed and proactive can greatly reduce the risk of UV-related harm.
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 |
| Santa Maria de la Paz | 9 | 11 | 14 | 15 | 14 | 14 | 14 | 13 | 14 | 12 | 10 | 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 |