UV Index in San Salvador, Mexico

Last updated: June 2, 2025

In San Salvador, Mexico, being aware of the UV Index is crucial for protecting your skin and overall health. Understanding the UV levels can help prevent painful sunburns and long-term skin damage, especially in a region characterized by its temperate highland climate. With peak UV readings skyrocketing to 14 between noon and early afternoon, residents and visitors must stay informed about potential exposure risks to enjoy the beautifully sunny days safely. Prioritizing UV awareness can mean the difference between a fun day outdoors and an uncomfortable sunburn, so stay vigilant and protect your skin!

Hourly UV Index in San Salvador

As the day progresses, the UV Index dramatically rises, peaking at an intense 12 by noon. Starting from a mild 1 at 07:00, it escalates steadily, hitting 10 at 11:00 and reaching the summit of 14 at 13:00. This is prime time for sun exposure, making protective measures essential as the index dips back to 10 by 15:00 and then gradually declines, settling at 1 again by 18:00. With this UV pattern, it's vital to take precautions during the midday hours for safe outdoor activities.

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	12	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	1	low	45 min
19:00	1	low	45 min

Monthly UV Index Trends in San Salvador

Throughout the year, the UV Index demonstrates significant seasonal variation, with peak levels occurring from February to October. The highest risk months are March through October, where the UV Index consistently reaches 14, classified as extreme with a minimal burn time of just 10 minutes. Visitors and residents should take precautionary measures during these months, such as wearing protective clothing, applying sunscreen with high SPF, and seeking shade to minimize sun exposure. In contrast, January, November, and December experience lower UV levels, classified as very high, with burn times extending to 15 minutes. However, it's still important to remain vigilant about sun safety year-round.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for San Salvador, Mexico

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

The table above highlights how UV exposure in San Salvador 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 Salvador'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
San Salvador	10	12	14	14	14	14	14	13	13	12	10	9
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