UV Index in San Diego, Mexico

Last updated: June 2, 2025

In San Diego, Mexico, being aware of the UV Index is essential for protecting your skin from harmful ultraviolet radiation. Understanding UV levels not only aids in preventing sunburn but also plays a crucial role in maintaining long-term skin health. With its temperate Cfb climate, San Diego experiences varying UV exposure, peaking dramatically from 10 AM to 3 PM, when the index can soar as high as 14. This highlights the importance of staying informed and taking necessary precautions to enjoy the sun safely while minimizing the risks associated with overexposure.

Hourly UV Index in San Diego

Starting off the day with a low UV Index of 1 at 07:00, outdoor activities can be enjoyed with minimal sun protection until the sun climbs higher. As the clock ticks, the UV levels gradually increase, hitting 3 by 09:00 and reaching a notable 6 at 10:00. However, the real peak arrives from 11:00 to 14:00, when the UV Index skyrockets to a blistering 14, calling for serious sun safety measures. Post 14:00, there’s a gradual decline back to 5 by 17:00, and it continues to drop to 1 by 19:00, making late afternoon a far safer time for sun seekers. Remember to relish the day while prioritizing your sun protection during those critical midday hours!

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	3	moderate	30 min
10:00	6	high	25 min
11:00	10	very high	15 min
12:00	13	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 San Diego

The UV exposure varies significantly throughout the year, with January displaying a UV Index of 9, categorized as very high, indicating a burn time of 15 minutes. From February to October, the UV Index escalates sharply, peaking at 15 in May and July, falling under the extreme category with a dangerously low exposure limit of 10 minutes before tapering off in November and December. The high-risk months for UV exposure and potential skin damage are therefore from February to October, especially in the summer months. Residents and visitors are strongly advised to take protective measures during these periods, including wearing sunscreen, protective clothing, and seeking shade whenever possible to minimize the risk of sunburn and long-term skin damage.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for San Diego, Mexico

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

The table above highlights how UV exposure in San Diego 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 Diego'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
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
San Diego	9	12	13	14	15	14	15	14	14	12	10	8
Puebla UVI	10	12	14	15	15	15	15	14	14	13	10	9