UV Index in Santa Cruz, Mexico

Last updated: May 3, 2025

Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors of Santa Cruz, Mexico, where the warm Aw climate fosters sunny days and outdoor adventures. As UV levels can peak rapidly—reaching a critical UV Index of 15 during midday—awareness helps prevent sunburn and promotes better skin health. With such high exposure risks, particularly between 10 AM and 4 PM, staying informed about UV levels can make all the difference in protecting yourself from harmful effects, ensuring your time in the sun remains enjoyable and safe.

Hourly UV Index in Santa Cruz

As the sun rises, the UV Index starts off gently, reaching a maximum of 1 by 7:00 AM. However, as the day progresses, it climbs dramatically, peaking at an intense 15 by 1:00 PM. The UV intensity is particularly strong between 11:00 AM and 2:00 PM, with values soaring to a staggering 13 at noon and 14 by 2:00 PM. After this midday surge, the index gradually drops, settling back to a moderate 5 by 5:00 PM and declining further to 1 by 7:00 PM. It's essential to protect your skin during those peak hours to ensure safe and enjoyable outdoor activities!

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	3	moderate	30 min
10:00	6	high	25 min
11:00	9	very high	15 min
12:00	13	extreme	10 min
13:00	15	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 Santa Cruz

The UV Index experiences significant seasonal fluctuations, with high-risk months primarily occurring from February through October. During this period, the UV Index reaches extreme levels, peaking at 15 in April, May, July, and fluctuating between 12 and 14 in other summer months. Burn times are notably short, with exposure times as little as 10 minutes required for potential sunburn. Residents and visitors are strongly advised to take precautions during these months; this includes wearing protective clothing, applying broad-spectrum sunscreen, seeking shade, and avoiding peak sun hours whenever possible. As we transition into November and December, the UV Index decreases to 10 and 9, respectively, allowing for a moderate level of exposure, although caution is still recommended.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Santa Cruz, Mexico

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

The table above highlights how UV exposure in Santa Cruz 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.

Santa Cruz'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
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
Santa Cruz	10	12	14	15	15	14	15	14	14	12	10	9
Puebla UVI	10	12	14	15	15	15	15	14	14	13	10	9