UV Index in Las Cruces, Mexico

Last updated: May 3, 2025

Understanding the UV Index in Las Cruces, Mexico is crucial for protecting yourself against the sun's harmful rays. With its high desert climate, Las Cruces experiences intense sunlight, especially during peak hours when the UV Index can soar to 15—a level that poses significant risks of sunburn and long-term skin damage. By staying informed about UV levels, you can take proactive steps to safeguard your skin health and enjoy outdoor activities without worry. Whether you're planning a morning hike or an afternoon picnic, knowing when to seek shade or apply sunscreen is key to preventing sun-related health issues in this sunny region.

Hourly UV Index in Las Cruces

The UV Index today follows a dramatic curve, with a slow start in the early hours. At 8:00 AM, the index registers a low 1, gradually climbing to 2 by 9:00 AM. However, the sun’s intensity peaks around noon, hitting a scorching 12 before soaring even higher to 15 between 1:00 PM and 2:00 PM. As the afternoon progresses, the levels start to decrease, tapering down to 10 by 4:00 PM, and finally down to 1 by 7:00 PM. It's essential to stay protected during the midday hours when the UV index is at its highest—don't forget your sunscreen!

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	15	extreme	10 min
14:00	15	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