UV Index in Santa Maria, Mexico

Last updated: May 3, 2025

Understanding the UV Index in Santa Maria, Mexico, is crucial for safeguarding your skin and overall health. With the region's Cwb climate offering warm days throughout the year, the UV levels can reach dangerously high peaks, particularly between noon and 2 PM, when they soar to 14 on the scale. By tracking UV exposure, residents and visitors can proactively prevent sunburn and reduce the risk of long-term skin damage. Enjoying the sun is part of life in Santa Maria, but a little awareness can go a long way in keeping you safe and healthy while soaking up those rays!

Hourly UV Index in Santa Maria

The UV Index throughout the day showcased a striking pattern, beginning with a negligible level of 0 at 07:00. As the sun rose, the intensity gradually increased, reaching a modest 1 at 08:00 and climbing to 2 by 09:00. The real surge occurred as the day unfolded, peaking at an intense 14 from 13:00 to 14:00, indicating a high risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure. From this zenith, the index started to decline, dropping to 9 by 16:00 and tapering off to 1 by 19:00. This dynamic progression underscores the importance of sun safety during peak hours, particularly between noon and early afternoon.

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	5	moderate	30 min
18:00	2	low	45 min
19:00	1	low	45 min

Monthly UV Index Trends in Santa Maria

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 Maria, Mexico

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

The table above highlights how UV exposure in Santa Maria 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 Maria'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 Maria	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