UV Index in Isla Cozumel, Mexico

Last updated: May 3, 2025

In Isla Cozumel, Mexico, staying informed about the UV Index is essential for protecting your skin under the tropical sun. Understanding UV levels can significantly reduce your risk of sunburn and long-term skin damage, making it crucial for both locals and visitors alike. With its BSk climate, Cozumel experiences vibrant sunshine that peaks with alarming UV levels, especially around midday. For instance, during the sunniest hours, the UV Index can reach a staggering 11, marking an extreme risk of harm from unprotected exposure. By being aware of these levels and taking necessary precautions, you can enjoy the island's beauty while safeguarding your skin health.

Hourly UV Index in Isla Cozumel

Throughout the day, the UV Index experiences a dramatic increase, peaking at 11 between noon and 1 PM, indicating a very high level of solar radiation. Early risers will notice a gentle start, with a UV Index of just 1 at 7 AM, gradually climbing to 4 by 9 AM. As the sun reaches its zenith, values soar to 9 at 11 AM, signaling it's time to take precautions. After the peak, the UV Index begins to decline, dropping to 10 at 2 PM, then tapering off to 3 by 5 PM and resting back down to 1 by 6 PM. Staying protected in the midday sun is crucial for skin safety during these hours!

Average solar exposure data for the current time of the year. Actual values may vary and depend on many factors, such as cloud cover, vegetation cover, surface type, etc.
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	9	very high	15 min
12:00	11	extreme	10 min
13:00	11	extreme	10 min
14:00	10	very high	15 min
15:00	7	high	25 min
16:00	5	moderate	30 min
17:00	3	moderate	30 min
18:00	1	low	45 min
19:00	1	low	45 min

Monthly UV Index Trends in Isla Cozumel

The UV Index experiences significant seasonal variations, peaking during the summer months. High-risk months for UV exposure are from May to August, when the UV Index consistently reaches levels categorized as extreme (11), indicating a burn time as short as 10 minutes. March and April also present high risks with very high indexes (8 and 10), where the burn time drops to 15 minutes. Visitors and residents are strongly advised to take protective measures during these months, such as wearing sunscreen, sunglasses, and protective clothing, and seeking shade during peak sun hours to minimize the risk of skin damage. As fall approaches, the risk decreases, with October seeing a high category (UV Index 7) but burn times lengthening to 25 minutes.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Isla Cozumel, Mexico

The monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) represents the highest UV radiation level recorded each month in Isla Cozumel. It measures the strength of ultraviolet radiation from the sun and helps assess the risk of sunburn and UV-related health issues.

Data source: Statistical UV Index data for Isla Cozumel, based on information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

UV Risk Categories

Extreme (11+): Avoid the sun, stay in shade.
Very High (8-10): Limit sun exposure.
High (6-7): Use SPF 30+ and protective clothing.
Moderate (3-5): Midday shade recommended.
Low (0-2): No protection needed.

Compare Isla Cozumel UV Index with Other Mexico Cities

The table above highlights how UV exposure in Isla Cozumel compares to other major locations across Mexico. This comparison helps travelers and residents better understand regional sun intensity and plan outdoor activities with sun safety in mind.

Isla Cozumel's solar exposure compared to other cities in Mexico. Generated using Copernicus Atmosphere Monitoring Service information.
	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Isla Cozumel	4	6	8	10	11	11	11	11	10	7	5	4
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