UV Index in Puerto Rico, Mexico

Last updated: July 2, 2025

In Puerto Rico, understanding the UV Index is essential for protecting your skin and overall health. With UV levels reaching a staggering 15 around midday, awareness of UV exposure helps prevent sunburn and long-term skin damage. The tropical climate of Puerto Rico, characterized by abundant sunshine and minimal cloud cover, heightens these risks, making it crucial for locals and visitors alike to monitor UV levels daily. By staying informed and taking protective measures, you can enjoy the beautiful beaches and vibrant outdoor activities this stunning island has to offer while keeping your skin safe.

Hourly UV Index in Puerto Rico

The UV index for the day showcases a dramatic rise in sun intensity as the hours progress. Starting at a mild 1 during the early morning (7:00 AM), the index remains low until 9:00 AM when it reaches 3. However, by 10:00 AM, it soars to 7, heralding a sunny peak ahead. The afternoon sees an impressive climb, peaking at a maximum of 15 at 1:00 PM—the most critical time for sun exposure—before gradually tapering off to 11 by 3:00 PM and falling to 1 by nighttime. This data underscores the importance of sun safety measures during the vibrant midday 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	1	low	45 min
09:00	3	moderate	30 min
10:00	7	high	25 min
11:00	10	very high	15 min
12:00	13	extreme	10 min
13:00	15	extreme	10 min
14:00	14	extreme	10 min
15:00	11	extreme	10 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

Monthly UV Index Trends in Puerto Rico

During the year, the UV Index shows significant seasonal changes, peaking in the summer months. From January to March, the UV Index begins at 10 and escalates to 14 by April, maintaining that level through June. The highest readings occur in July with a UV Index of 15, indicating extremely high exposure risk. Post-July, the levels gradually decline, with October recording a UV Index of 13, before falling back to 10 in November and 9 in December, reflecting very high levels again. The high-risk months for UV exposure are February to October, which are classified as extreme or very high exposure categories. Visitors and residents are advised to take necessary precautions during these months, such as wearing protective clothing, utilizing broad-spectrum sunscreen, and seeking shade during peak sun hours to mitigate the risks associated with high UV exposure.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Puerto Rico, Mexico

The monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) represents the highest UV radiation level recorded each month in Puerto Rico. 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 Puerto Rico, 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 Puerto Rico UV Index with Other Mexico Cities

The table above highlights how UV exposure in Puerto Rico 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.

Puerto Rico'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
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
Puerto Rico	10	12	14	14	14	14	15	14	14	13	10	9
Puebla UVI	10	12	14	15	15	15	15	14	14	13	10	9