UV Index in Santiago, Mexico

Last updated: July 2, 2025

In Santiago, Mexico, staying aware of the UV Index is crucial for maintaining skin health and preventing sunburn. With its warm climate, the region experiences significant sun exposure, particularly during the midday hours when UV levels peak. Understanding these levels—especially when they soar to 13 from 12 PM to 2 PM—can help residents and visitors alike take necessary precautions, such as applying sunscreen and seeking shade. By monitoring the UV Index, you can protect your skin and enjoy all that sunny Santiago has to offer with confidence.

Hourly UV Index in Santiago

The UV Index throughout the day showcases a dynamic shift in sun intensity. Starting at a low 0 at 7:00 AM, the index gradually climbs, reaching a moderate 2 by 9:00 AM. However, the sun's strength peaks dramatically at 13 between 1:00 PM and 2:00 PM, indicating a very HIGH level of UV radiation—ideal conditions for seeking shade or applying sunscreen. As the afternoon winds down, the index dips to a more manageable 5 by 5:00 PM, and finally settles at 1 by 7:00 PM. For sun seekers, midday offers the most intensity, so planning outdoor activities accordingly can help ensure both enjoyment and safety!

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	13	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 Santiago

The seasonal UV changes indicate that from January to October, the UV Index remains consistently high, with several months categorized as extreme. The most critical months for UV exposure are February through October, where the UV Index peaks at 14 in April and June. **Burn times are notably short, often just 10 minutes, underscoring the necessity for caution. As November and December roll around, the UV Index gradually declines, but remains in the very high category, with burn times extending to 15 minutes. Visitors and residents should take proactive measures during high-risk months by wearing protective clothing, applying broad-spectrum sunscreen, and seeking shade during peak sun hours to minimize their risk of sunburn and long-term skin damage.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Santiago, Mexico

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

The table above highlights how UV exposure in Santiago 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.

Santiago'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
Santiago	10	11	13	14	13	14	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