UV Index in El Salvador, Mexico

Last updated: May 3, 2025

In El Salvador, understanding the UV Index is crucial for protecting your skin from harmful ultraviolet radiation. With peak UV levels reaching an alarming 14 during midday hours, awareness is key to preventing sunburn and maintaining overall skin health. The tropical climate of El Salvador, characterized by long sunny days and minimal cloud cover, elevates the risk of UV exposure significantly. By staying informed about daily UV levels, residents and visitors alike can take proactive measures to shield themselves from the sun's damaging effects, ensuring a safer and more enjoyable outdoor experience.

Hourly UV Index in El Salvador

As the sun rises, the UV Index gradually climbs, starting at 0 at 7:00 AM—a safe time for outdoor activities. By 9:00 AM, it reaches 2, indicating a mild risk. However, as the day progresses, the intensity peaks at 12:00 PM with a high of 11, and again at 1:00 PM and 2:00 PM, both hitting an alarming 14. This represents a very high risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure, urging caution for those outdoors. The afternoon sees a slight drop, with the index falling to 9 at 4:00 PM and tapering off as the sun begins to set, closing out the day at 1 by 7:00 PM. Remember to stay protected during those peak hours!

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	8	very high	15 min
12:00	11	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	6	high	25 min
18:00	3	moderate	30 min
19:00	1	low	45 min

Monthly UV Index Trends in El Salvador

Throughout the year, the UV Index exhibits significant seasonal changes, with the highest readings occurring from February to October. The most critical months, where the UV Index reaches extreme levels (11 and above), are February through October, with April peaking at 15. During these months, the recommended burn time is only 10 minutes, underscoring the urgent need for protective measures such as sunscreen, hats, and clothing. Conversely, while January, November, and December do have high UV levels, they fall under the very high category, allowing for a slightly longer burn time of 15 minutes. To ensure safety and well-being, it is essential for both visitors and residents to remain vigilant and take appropriate precautions, especially during the high-risk months of spring and summer.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for El Salvador, Mexico

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

The table above highlights how UV exposure in El Salvador 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.

El Salvador'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
El Salvador	9	11	14	15	14	13	13	13	13	12	10	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