UV Index in San Marcos, Mexico

Last updated: August 1, 2025

In San Marcos, Mexico, being aware of the UV Index is crucial for protecting your skin and overall health. Understanding UV levels helps you take necessary precautions against sunburn and long-term skin damage, especially during the peak hours when the index soars to 14—indicating extreme risk. With its semi-arid climate, San Marcos experiences significant UV exposure, particularly from late morning to early afternoon. Staying informed about the UV Index empowers residents and visitors alike to enjoy the sunny outdoors safely while prioritizing skin health.

Hourly UV Index in San Marcos

The UV Index for the day displays a clear progression of intensity as the sun climbs higher in the sky. Starting at 0 at 7:00 AM, the UV exposure begins to rise gradually, reaching 1 by 8:00 AM. By 10:00 AM, it escalates to 4, and from 11:00 AM onward, the intensity sharply increases, peaking at an impressive 14 between 2:00 PM and 3:00 PM. This is the moment to take extra precautions against sunburn, as UV radiation is at its highest. As the afternoon wanes, the index dips back to 7 by 5:00 PM, further declining to 4 by 6:00 PM, and finally settling at 1 by 7:00 PM. This pattern highlights the importance of sun safety during the midday hours when UV levels can be particularly harmful.

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	13	extreme	10 min
14:00	14	extreme	10 min
15:00	12	extreme	10 min
16:00	10	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 San Marcos

The UV index varies significantly throughout the year, with the highest values observed from March to October, reaching an extreme level of 14 during the summer months (May through August). Visitors and residents should be particularly cautious from February to October, where burn times are as short as 10 minutes due to the extreme exposure category. January and November present a slightly lower UV index, categorized as very high, with a burn time of 15 minutes. By December, the UV index decreases to 7, making exposure risks lower, with a burn time of 25 minutes. It is essential for everyone to take protective measures against UV radiation, especially during the high-risk months, by wearing sunscreen, protective clothing, and seeking shade.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for San Marcos, Mexico

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

The table above highlights how UV exposure in San Marcos 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 Marcos'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 Marcos	8	11	13	14	14	14	14	14	13	12	9	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