UV Index in Santa Cruz, Mexico

Last updated: July 2, 2025

In the sun-soaked paradise of Santa Cruz, Mexico, staying aware of the UV Index is crucial for safeguarding your skin and overall health. Understanding the daily fluctuations in UV levels is essential, especially to prevent sunburn and long-term skin damage. With a tropical climate that often brings intense sun exposure, particularly during midday when the UV Index reaches a scorching 12 to 13, residents and visitors alike must be vigilant. By monitoring the UV Index in Santa Cruz, you can enjoy all that this beautiful destination has to offer while protecting your skin from harmful rays.

Hourly UV Index in Santa Cruz

As the day unfolds, the UV Index reveals a dynamic sun intensity pattern. Starting with a cool 1 at 07:00 and 08:00, the UV rays begin to strengthen, climbing to 3 by 09:00. The sun reaches its zenith at 12:00, peaking at a blistering 12, before escalating to an impressive 13 at 13:00. Afterward, the intensity starts to wane, tapering off to 10 by 15:00 and then dropping back to 6 at 16:00. As evening approaches, the UV Index declines further, reaching a gentle 2 at 18:00 and settling back to 1 by the time the sun sets at 19:00. Enjoy the sunshine, but don’t forget to protect your skin 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	3	moderate	30 min
10:00	6	high	25 min
11:00	9	very high	15 min
12:00	12	extreme	10 min
13:00	13	extreme	10 min
14:00	12	extreme	10 min
15:00	10	very high	15 min
16:00	6	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 Santa Cruz

During the year, the UV Index exhibits significant seasonal variation, peaking from March through September with consistently high levels categorized as extreme (UV Index 11-13) and a burn time of only 10 minutes. The highest-risk months are February to April and June to September, when the UV Index reaches its maximum of 13. Visitors and residents are strongly advised to take proper precautions during these months, including wearing protective clothing, applying broad-spectrum sunscreen, and seeking shade when outdoors to minimize the risk of sunburn and long-term skin damage. In contrast, January, November, and December experience a slight decrease in UV exposure, yet caution should still be exercised as the UV Index remains in the very high range.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Santa Cruz, Mexico

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

The table above highlights how UV exposure in Santa Cruz 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.

Santa Cruz'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
Santa Cruz	9	11	13	13	12	13	13	12	13	11	9	8
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