UV Index in San Francisco, Mexico

Last updated: May 3, 2025

In San Francisco, Mexico, understanding the UV Index is crucial for protecting your skin and overall health. With values soaring to a maximum of 14 during midday, it’s essential to be aware of the UV levels to prevent sunburn and long-term skin damage. San Francisco's climate offers plenty of sunshine, but it also brings its own set of UV exposure risks, particularly throughout the day when the index peaks. By staying informed about UV radiation, you can enjoy the outdoors safely and keep your skin healthy.

Hourly UV Index in San Francisco

As the sun rises, the UV Index begins its climb from a gentle 1 at 07:00, nudging upwards to 2 by 09:00. By mid-morning, the intensity escalates to 5 at 10:00, signaling the need for some sun safety. The peak arrives at noon with a sizzling 12, reaching a blistering 14 by 13:00 and 14:00, marking the hours of most intense sun exposure. As afternoon fades, the UV Index gradually recedes to 12 at 15:00, before cooling further to 5 by 17:00, and finally winding down to 1 by 19:00. During the peak hours, make sure to stay protected and enjoy the sunshine responsibly!

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	1	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	2	low	45 min
19:00	1	low	45 min

Monthly UV Index Trends in San Francisco

The UV Index exhibits significant seasonal variations, with the highest levels occurring from February through September. During these months, particularly from March to June, the index reaches an extreme level of 14. This indicates a high risk for sunburn, with a minimal exposure burn time of just 10 minutes. Visitors and residents are strongly advised to take precautionary measures during these months, such as wearing protective clothing, applying high-SPF sunscreen, and seeking shade during peak sun hours. As the year progresses into October and returns to November and December, the UV Index decreases to 12 and 10, respectively, still presenting a very high risk, but with slightly longer burn times of 10 to 15 minutes. Awareness and protection remain crucial, even in the cooler months.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for San Francisco, Mexico

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

The table above highlights how UV exposure in San Francisco 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 Francisco'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
San Francisco	10	12	14	14	14	14	14	13	14	12	10	9
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