UV Index in Monterrey, Mexico

Last updated: June 2, 2025

In Monterrey, Mexico, understanding the UV Index is crucial for protecting your skin and overall health. With the city’s warm BWh climate and high levels of UV exposure, awareness of these levels can help prevent sunburn and long-term skin damage. As the sun climbs higher throughout the day, UV Index values soar to dangerous highs—reaching up to 13 at 2 PM. By keeping an eye on the UV Index, you can make informed decisions about sun protection, ensuring that you enjoy the beautiful Monterrey weather safely!

Hourly UV Index in Monterrey

As the day unfolds, the UV Index rises steadily, beginning at a safe 0 at 07:00 and peaking dramatically. By 10:00, it escalates to 4, signaling the need for some sun protection. The intensity reaches 10 at 12:00, and then hits its maximum at 13:00 with a formidable 12. Right after, it slightly dips but remains high at 12 until 15:00. As the afternoon wanes, the UV Index begins to decline, dropping to 9 by 16:00, and continuing its descent to 1 by 19:00. This fluctuation highlights the importance of being sun-smart during peak hours, especially between 11:00 and 15:00, when the sun is at its strongest.

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	0	low	45 min
08:00	1	low	45 min
09:00	2	low	45 min
10:00	4	moderate	30 min
11:00	7	high	25 min
12:00	10	very high	15 min
13:00	12	extreme	10 min
14:00	13	extreme	10 min
15:00	12	extreme	10 min
16:00	9	very high	15 min
17:00	6	high	25 min
18:00	3	moderate	30 min
19:00	1	low	45 min

Monthly UV Index Trends in Monterrey

The UV Index exhibits significant seasonal variability, peaking during the warmer months. Notably, March through October marks a period of extreme UV exposure, with the highest readings occurring in April at an index of 14. The most critical months for sun exposure are February through October, where UV levels range from very high to extreme, with minimal safe burn times of just 10 minutes during the peak months. Visitors and residents are advised to take strong protective measures, such as applying broad-spectrum sunscreen, wearing protective clothing, and seeking shade during peak hours. In contrast, the winter months of January, November, and December present lower UV risks, with indices at 7 or 8 and safer burn times of 15-25 minutes. However, UV radiation can still be significant, so caution is recommended year-round.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Monterrey, Mexico

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

The table above highlights how UV exposure in Monterrey 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.

Monterrey'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
Monterrey	7	10	12	14	13	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