UV Index in Veracruz, Mexico

Last updated: June 2, 2025

In Veracruz, Mexico, understanding the UV Index is crucial for safeguarding your skin and overall health under the blazing sun. With UV levels often peaking at 11 to 14 during midday, awareness of these intensity levels can help individuals prevent painful sunburns and long-term skin damage. The arid climate characteristic of this region means UV exposure can be particularly high, even during the morning and late afternoon hours. By staying informed about the UV Index, residents and visitors alike can enjoy the beautiful Veracruz sun safely, ensuring that outdoor activities do not come at the cost of skin health.

Hourly UV Index in Veracruz

The UV Index throughout the day showcases a striking rise and fall in solar intensity. Starting from a modest 0 at 07:00, the index steadily climbs, reaching peak levels at 14:00 with a scorching 14. This midday surge is a vivid reminder of the sun's power, with 11 by noon and its highest intensity hitting 13 during the early afternoon. As the day progresses, the UV Index gracefully declines, sliding back to 6 at 17:00, before tapering off to 1 by 19:00. It's crucial to stay protected during those peak hours, especially from 11:00 to 15:00, when UV exposure can be at its most intense!

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	8	very high	15 min
12:00	11	extreme	10 min
13:00	13	extreme	10 min
14:00	14	extreme	10 min
15:00	13	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 Veracruz

The UV Index exhibits significant seasonal fluctuations, with the highest values occurring from February to September, where it reaches extreme levels of 11 to 15 and a dangerously low burn time of just 10 minutes. Particularly, March through May remain high-risk months, making sun protection essential during this period. Visitors and residents are advised to minimize sun exposure during these months, especially from 10 AM to 4 PM, and to wear broad-spectrum sunscreen, protective clothing, and wide-brimmed hats. As we transition into the latter part of the year, the UV Index decreases, with November and December presenting a moderate risk, allowing for slightly longer burn times of 15 to 25 minutes. Nonetheless, caution is still recommended to avoid skin damage.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Veracruz, Mexico

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

The table above highlights how UV exposure in Veracruz 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.

Veracruz'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
Guadalajara UVI	9	11	14	14	14	13	13	13	13	12	9	8
Veracruz	8	11	13	15	14	14	14	14	13	12	9	7
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