UV Index in San Jose, Mexico

Last updated: July 2, 2025

Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors of San Jose, Mexico, where the sun can be intense due to its Aw climate zone. Awareness of UV levels is vital for preventing sunburn and promoting overall skin health in a region that experiences significant sunlight exposure throughout the year. With peak UV Index readings reaching as high as 14 during midday hours, it's essential to take precautions, especially from 11 AM to 3 PM when the risk of harmful UV rays is at its maximum. Staying informed about UV levels can help you enjoy the beautiful San Jose sun while protecting your skin from its damaging effects.

Hourly UV Index in San Jose

The UV Index for today paints a vivid picture of sun exposure throughout the day. Early morning hours, from 07:00 to 09:00, see a gentle start, maximuming at just 2. However, as the clock strikes 10:00, there’s a dramatic uptick with the index soaring to 5. The real intensity kicks in during the noon hours, reaching its peak at 12:00 with an impressive 12. Just an hour later, it escalates to a scorching 14 at 13:00, before gradually retreating in the late afternoon. By 15:00, it drops to 11, and as evening approaches, the index slips back to 1 by 19:00. If you're heading outside today, remember: midday is when the sun is at its fiercest!

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	1	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	13	extreme	10 min
15:00	11	extreme	10 min
16:00	8	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 San Jose

The UV Index exhibits significant seasonal variations, with the highest levels occurring from February through September. During these months, particularly from March to June, the index reaches an extreme level of 14. This indicates a high risk for sunburn, with a minimal exposure burn time of just 10 minutes. Visitors and residents are strongly advised to take precautionary measures during these months, such as wearing protective clothing, applying high-SPF sunscreen, and seeking shade during peak sun hours. As the year progresses into October and returns to November and December, the UV Index decreases to 12 and 10, respectively, still presenting a very high risk, but with slightly longer burn times of 10 to 15 minutes. Awareness and protection remain crucial, even in the cooler months.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for San Jose, Mexico

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

The table above highlights how UV exposure in San Jose 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.

San Jose'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
San Jose	10	12	14	14	14	14	14	13	14	12	10	9
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