UV Index in Las Cruces, Mexico

Last updated: June 2, 2025

In Las Cruces, Mexico, awareness of the UV Index is crucial for safeguarding your skin and overall health. With our region's Cwb climate, residents and visitors alike should be mindful of daily UV levels to prevent sunburn and long-term skin damage. Understanding the UV index not only helps in enjoying outdoor activities safely but also promotes skin health in a place that experiences significant sunlight exposure. With peak UV Index values reaching a high of 14 around midday, knowing when to seek shade or apply sunscreen is essential for protecting yourself in our sunny environment.

Hourly UV Index in Las Cruces

The UV Index throughout the day presents a vivid picture of solar intensity, peaking at an impressive 14 between 1 PM and 2 PM. Starting from 0 at 7 AM, it gradually climbs, reaching 12 by noon and hitting its maximum just after. As the afternoon wanes, the index begins to taper off, dropping to 10 at 4 PM, and descending further to 3 by 6 PM. By 7 PM, the UV Index is a mere 1, signaling a gentle close to a sun-soaked day. This data underscores the importance of sun protection during peak hours, particularly from 11 AM to 3 PM, where caution is paramount to avoid harmful UV exposure.

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	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	13	extreme	10 min
16:00	10	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 Las Cruces

The UV Index demonstrates significant seasonal changes, peaking during the late spring and summer months. From January to March, the index starts high but quickly escalates, reaching its maximum of 15 in both April and May. The months of February to October pose the highest risk, with an extreme exposure category, where the burn time is notably short at 10 minutes. Visitors and residents should be particularly vigilant during these high-risk months, especially from February to October, and adopt protective measures such as wearing sunscreen, hats, and protective clothing. As we approach the fall and winter months, the UV risk decreases but remains notably high in November and December. It is essential to stay informed and protect your skin year-round.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Las Cruces, Mexico

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

The table above highlights how UV exposure in Las Cruces 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.

Las Cruces'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
Las Cruces	9	11	14	15	15	14	14	14	14	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