UV Index in Las Cruces, Mexico

Last updated: May 3, 2025

Understanding the UV Index in Las Cruces, Mexico, is essential for protecting your skin and overall health. With intense sun exposure typical of the region's Cwb climate, being aware of UV levels can help prevent painful sunburns and long-term skin damage. During peak hours—particularly between 10 AM and 2 PM when the UV Index can soar to 14—the sun's rays are at their most dangerous, making awareness not just beneficial, but necessary. By monitoring the UV Index, you can enjoy the sunny beauty of Las Cruces while safeguarding your skin health. Stay informed and stay protected!

Hourly UV Index in Las Cruces

The UV Index for the day showcases a dramatic rise in intensity as the sun climbs higher in the sky. Starting from a calm 0 at 07:00, it gradually ticks upward, reaching 1 by 08:00. As the clock strikes 10:00, the UV Index surges to 5, and by 11:00, it climbs to a robust 9. The peak occurs at 13:00 and 14:00, where it hits a thrilling 14—a clear warning for sun protection. As the afternoon wanes, the intensity begins to drop, falling to 9 by 16:00, and further down to 5 at 17:00. The day wraps up with a gentle decline, ending with a low 1 by 19:00. As such, it’s essential to stay vigilant during the peak hours, particularly between 11:00 and 14:00, to enjoy the sun safely!

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	5	moderate	30 min
11:00	9	very high	15 min
12:00	12	extreme	10 min
13:00	14	extreme	10 min
14:00	14	extreme	10 min
15:00	12	extreme	10 min
16:00	9	very high	15 min
17:00	5	moderate	30 min
18:00	3	moderate	30 min
19:00	1	low	45 min

Monthly UV Index Trends in Las Cruces

Throughout the year, seasonal changes in UV Index indicate that visitors and residents should be particularly cautious during the high-risk months of February through October. During this period, the UV Index ranges from 11 to 15, corresponding to an extreme exposure category where the recommended burn time is just 10 minutes. The peak UV Index occurs in April at 15, while it remains consistently high from February to September. Conversely, the UV Index decreases significantly from November to January, falling into a very high category with a burn time of 15 minutes in November and December. It is crucial for individuals to take protective measures, such as wearing sunscreen, protective clothing, and seeking shade, particularly in the spring and summer months when the risk of sunburn is highest.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Las Cruces, Mexico

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

The table above highlights how UV exposure in Las Cruces 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.

Las Cruces'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
Las Cruces	9	11	14	15	14	14	14	13	14	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