UV Index in Santa Cruz, Mexico

Last updated: June 2, 2025

In Santa Cruz, Mexico, staying informed about the UV Index is crucial for protecting your skin and ensuring your overall health. Understanding daily UV levels helps prevent sunburn and reduces the risk of long-term skin damage. With its Cwb climate, Santa Cruz experiences high UV exposure, particularly between the hours of 10 AM and 3 PM when the index can reach a peak of 14. By being mindful of the UV Index, you can enjoy the beautiful sun-soaked days while safeguarding your skin against harmful rays.

Hourly UV Index in Santa Cruz

The UV Index for the day showcases a significant escalation in sun intensity, peaking at 14 between 1 PM and 2 PM. Starting from a safe 0 at 7 AM, it gradually rises to a moderate 1 by 8 AM and hits 2 at 9 AM. As the sun climbs higher, the index jumps to 5 by 10 AM and surges to a robust 12 by noon. The intensity remains strong, holding steady at 14 from 1 PM to 2 PM, before tapering off to 12 at 3 PM and declining further to 6 by 5 PM. As the day winds down, the UV Index drops back to 1 by 7 PM, reminding us to seek shade and protect our skin when the sun's rays are at their strongest.

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	12	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 Santa Cruz

The seasonal variations in UV Index demonstrate a significant rise during the spring and summer months, peaking in April through September with an extreme index of 14 to 15. February through October also reflect high-risk UV conditions, with the most intense exposure occurring from March to October. During these months, the burn time is notably brief, ranging from 10 minutes, emphasizing the need for caution. Residents and visitors should ensure they apply broad-spectrum sunscreen, wear protective clothing, and seek shade during peak hours to minimize the risk of sunburn and long-term skin damage. Notably, November and December see a slight decrease in UV levels, but vigilance is still essential as the index remains within the very high category.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Santa Cruz, Mexico

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

The table above highlights how UV exposure in Santa Cruz 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 Cruz'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
Santa Cruz	10	11	14	15	14	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