UV Index in Santa Barbara, Mexico

Last updated: May 3, 2025

Understanding the UV Index in Santa Barbara, Mexico is crucial for protecting your skin and overall health. With values peaking at an intense 14 around midday, awareness of UV levels can prevent painful sunburns and long-term skin damage. This sunny locale, characterized by a semi-arid climate (BSk), presents unique risks with high UV exposure, especially during the hottest hours. By staying informed, you can enjoy the beautiful weather while safeguarding your skin’s health, ensuring fun in the sun without the burn!

Hourly UV Index in Santa Barbara

As the sun rises, the UV Index begins at a minimal 1 at 7:00, indicating low exposure risk. By 8:00, it creeps to 2, still a safe level for morning activities. However, the intensity ramps up significantly as the day progresses, reaching a peak of 14 at 1:00 PM—a time to seek shade and wear protective gear. The midday sun is relentless, with values soaring to 13 by 12:00 and 14:00. Fortunately, relief arrives as the sun descends, bringing the index down to 10 by 3:00, followed by a gradual decline to 4 at 5:00. As evening approaches, the UV Index lowers gently back to 1 by 7:00 PM, allowing for a safe close to the day. Remember to stay protected, especially 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	2	low	45 min
09:00	4	moderate	30 min
10:00	8	very high	15 min
11:00	11	extreme	10 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 Santa Barbara

The UV Index experiences significant seasonal fluctuations, with the highest levels occurring from March to October, where it reaches extreme categories (12-14), resulting in a burn time as short as 10 minutes during peak months. February marks the transition to very high levels, peaking at 10, while January and December see lower, yet still concerning levels of 7, categorized as high. For visitors and residents, the high-risk months are clearly from March through October, where it is crucial to take protective measures against UV exposure, such as wearing sunscreen, protective clothing, and seeking shade, especially during midday hours. As the UV Index declines in November and December, vigilance should remain, particularly in February when transitioning into the peak season. Always be mindful of the UV index when planning outdoor activities!

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Santa Barbara, Mexico

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

The table above highlights how UV exposure in Santa Barbara 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 Barbara'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 Barbara	7	10	12	14	14	13	13	13	13	11	8	7
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