Last updated: June 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors in Santa Maria, Mexico, where sun exposure can be intense due to its BSh climate. With UV levels reaching a staggering 13 around midday, awareness of these readings can help prevent painful sunburns and long-term skin damage. Knowledge of the UV Index empowers individuals to make informed decisions, whether it's applying sunscreen, wearing protective clothing, or seeking shade during peak hours. By understanding the typical risks associated with Santa Maria's sunny climate, you can better protect your skin while enjoying the beautiful outdoors.
The UV Index throughout the day presents a striking trajectory of rising intensity, peaking at 1 PM with a remarkable 13. Starting with a gentle 1 at 7 AM, the sun's rays gradually become more potent, hitting 10 at 11 AM and soaring to a critical 12 by noon. As the afternoon unfolds, the intensity remains strong, fluctuating between 12 and 9 from 1 PM to 3 PM, before gracefully tapering off. By 5 PM, the UV Index descends to 4, and as the day closes, it winds down to a soft 1 by 7 PM. Stay vigilant during those midday hours to protect your skin from the sun's fierce embrace!
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 | 12 | extreme | 10 min |
13:00 | 13 | extreme | 10 min |
14:00 | 12 | extreme | 10 min |
15:00 | 9 | 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 |
Seasonal changes in UV exposure highlight key high-risk months, particularly from February to September, when UV Index levels reach 10 or higher, indicating very high to extreme risk. March and April peak with an extreme index of 11 to 13, resulting in a minimal burn time of just 10 minutes. As summer approaches, from May to August, the UV index remains consistently high, emphasizing the importance of sun protection. Visitors and residents should take proactive measures—such as wearing sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses, and seeking shade during peak hours—to minimize their risk of UV-related health issues, especially during these critical months. In contrast, UV exposure decreases significantly in October and December, providing some relief with lower levels.
UV Risk Categories
Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Santa Maria | 7 | 10 | 11 | 13 | 14 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 12 | 10 | 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 |