UV Index in Santa Monica, Mexico

Last updated: May 3, 2025

Understanding the UV Index in Santa Monica, Mexico is crucial for maintaining skin health and preventing sunburn, especially given the region's warm climate. With UV levels peaking at a striking 15 during midday hours, awareness of these levels can help residents and visitors alike protect themselves from harmful exposure. Santa Monica's Cwb climate, characterized by comfortable temperatures and specific sun exposure risks, necessitates vigilance when enjoying outdoor activities. Check the UV Index regularly to ensure safe sun practices and keep your skin healthy year-round!

Hourly UV Index in Santa Monica

The UV Index data paints a vibrant picture of sunlight intensity throughout the day. Beginning with a mild UVI of 1 at 7:00 AM, the day starts gently, gradually climbing to 3 by 9:00 AM. However, as the sun reaches its zenith, the UVI skyrockets, peaking at an intense 15 between 1:00 PM and 2:00 PM. During these hours, it's crucial to take protective measures against harmful UV rays. As the sun begins to set, the index dips, dropping to 5 by 5:00 PM and returning to a safer 1 by 7:00 PM. This fluctuation highlights the importance of staying sun-smart during peak hours, especially between 11:00 AM and 2:00 PM when the UVI is at its highest.

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	10	very high	15 min
12:00	13	extreme	10 min
13:00	15	extreme	10 min
14:00	15	extreme	10 min
15:00	13	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 Monica

During the year, seasonal UV changes show significant fluctuations, with highest UV levels occurring from February to October. This period includes several high-risk months for sun exposure, particularly from March to October, where the UV Index reaches extreme levels (14-15), with a burn time of just 10 minutes. Conversely, January, November, and December experience very high UV Index ratings (9-10), with longer burn times of 15 minutes. Visitors and residents are strongly advised to take extra precautions during these high-risk months, including wearing protective clothing, applying broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher, and seeking shade during peak hours to minimize the risk of UV-related harm.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Santa Monica, Mexico

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

The table above highlights how UV exposure in Santa Monica 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 Monica'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 Monica	9	12	14	15	15	15	15	14	14	13	10	8
Puebla UVI	10	12	14	15	15	15	15	14	14	13	10	9