Last updated: June 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors in Zacatecas, Mexico, a region characterized by its high-altitude desert climate and intense sunshine. With UV levels soaring to a peak of 14 during midday, awareness of these fluctuations is vital for effective sunburn prevention and overall skin health. The UV Index serves as a straightforward guide to help you make informed decisions about sun exposure, ensuring that you can enjoy the sun safely while minimizing the risks associated with prolonged exposure. As you explore the beautiful landscapes of Zacatecas, keeping an eye on the UV Index can help protect your skin from potential harm caused by its striking UV rays.
The UV Index for the day reveals a stark rise in intensity as the sun climbs higher in the sky. Starting at a mild 0 at 07:00, it gradually increases to 1 by 08:00. By 10:00, the index reaches 5, indicating that precautions are advised. The peak occurs at 12:00, where the UV Index soars to a scorching 12, followed closely by a maximum of 14 at both 13:00 and 14:00. From there, a gentle decline begins, with values dropping to 10 at 16:00 and tapering off to 6 by 17:00. As the evening approaches, the index falls to 3 by 18:00, and finally to 1 at 19:00, signaling a significant drop in UV exposure. Protective measures are essential during the mid-day hours to ensure safety from harmful sun exposure!
| 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 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 11:00 | 8 | 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 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
| 17:00 | 6 | high | 25 min |
| 18:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 19:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
The UV Index demonstrates significant seasonal changes, peaking during the late spring and summer months. From January to March, the index starts high but quickly escalates, reaching its maximum of 15 in both April and May. The months of February to October pose the highest risk, with an extreme exposure category, where the burn time is notably short at 10 minutes. Visitors and residents should be particularly vigilant during these high-risk months, especially from February to October, and adopt protective measures such as wearing sunscreen, hats, and protective clothing. As we approach the fall and winter months, the UV risk decreases but remains notably high in November and December. It is essential to stay informed and protect your skin year-round.
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 |
| Zacatecas | 9 | 11 | 14 | 15 | 15 | 14 | 14 | 14 | 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 |