UV Index in San Diego, Mexico

Last updated: June 2, 2025

In San Diego, Mexico, awareness of the UV Index is crucial for maintaining healthy skin and preventing sunburn. Understanding UV levels can help you take the necessary precautions to protect yourself from harmful rays, especially during the intense midday hours when the index peaks at a staggering 14. With its sunny Aw climate, San Diego typically offers abundant sunshine, but this also means that UV exposure risks rise significantly. By staying informed about the UV Index, you can enjoy the beautiful weather while safeguarding your skin’s health.

Hourly UV Index in San Diego

The UV Index today presents a fascinating journey through the hours. Starting off with a low level of 1 at 07:00 and 08:00, it gradually climbs until it hits a moderate level of 4 by 09:00. The sun reaches its peak intensity around 12:00, with a staggering UV Index of 13, signaling a high risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure. This intensity continues into the early afternoon with a maximum of 14 at 13:00 before gradually tapering off as the day progresses. By 18:00, the index returns to a low of 2, ultimately dropping back to 1 as the sun sets at 19:00. Be sure to stay protected during those peak 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	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	14	extreme	10 min
14:00	13	extreme	10 min
15:00	10	very high	15 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 San Diego

The UV Index exhibits significant seasonal changes, with high-risk months from February to October, where values reach extreme levels (UV Index 13-15) for most of the period, resulting in a quick burn time of just 10 minutes. January and November present a slightly lower risk with very high exposure (UV Index 10) and a burn time of 15 minutes, while December sees a marginally decreased risk (UV Index 9). Visitors and residents are strongly advised to take protective measures during these high-risk months, such as wearing sunscreen with a high SPF, donning protective clothing, and seeking shade, particularly during midday hours when UV radiation is at its peak. Being proactive can greatly mitigate the risks associated with UV exposure throughout the year.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for San Diego, Mexico

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

The table above highlights how UV exposure in San Diego 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.

San Diego'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
San Diego	10	13	14	15	14	14	15	14	14	13	10	9
Puebla UVI	10	12	14	15	15	15	15	14	14	13	10	9