UV Index in San Rafael, Mexico

Last updated: May 3, 2025

In San Rafael, Mexico, understanding the UV Index is crucial for protecting your skin and overall health in this sunny climate. With UV levels often peaking at 14 during the afternoon, awareness of these fluctuations is essential for preventing sunburn and long-term skin damage. As a city characterized by its Csa climate, residents and visitors alike face significant solar exposure, making it imperative to check the UV Index regularly. By staying informed about these levels, you can enjoy the beautiful San Rafael sun while keeping your skin safe!

Hourly UV Index in San Rafael

The UV Index today shows a clear progression of intensity, starting with a maximum of 1 at 07:00, signaling a relatively safe morning. As the sun climbs, it peaks at a dramatic 14 at 13:00, indicating a high risk for sun exposure. From 10:00 onwards, the UV levels escalate rapidly, reaching 10 at 11:00 and a scorching 13 at noon. The afternoon sees a gradual decline, with the index easing back to 10 at 15:00, and further down to 4 by 17:00. The evening offers relief as it drops to 2 by 18:00 and finally settles at 1 by 19:00. It’s crucial to be sun-smart during peak hours, especially between 11:00 and 14:00.

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	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 Rafael

Throughout the year, UV radiation fluctuates significantly, peaking during the warmer months. January starts with a UV Index of 7 (high), while February escalates to 9 (very high), with a burn time of 15 minutes. The danger peaks from March to June, where the UV Index reaches an extreme level of 14, allowing only 10 minutes of unprotected exposure. July through September also maintain a high-risk index of 13, underlining the need for caution. As temperatures begin to drop, October sees a reduction to 11 (extreme), followed by November at 8 (very high) and December at 6 (high), with burn times extending back to 15 and 25 minutes, respectively. Given these patterns, it is crucial for both visitors and residents to prioritize sun safety between March and October, especially during the midday hours, by using sunscreen, wearing protective clothing, and seeking shade when necessary.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for San Rafael, Mexico

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

The table above highlights how UV exposure in San Rafael 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 Rafael'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
San Rafael	7	9	11	14	14	14	13	13	13	11	8	6
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