UV Index in Santa Barbara, Mexico

Last updated: June 2, 2025

In the sunny coastal town of Santa Barbara, Mexico, staying informed about the UV Index is crucial for safeguarding your skin health. As a region with a BSk climate, Santa Barbara enjoys bright sunshine throughout the year, but this also means higher risks of sunburn and long-term skin damage. Understanding UV levels helps you take proactive steps to protect yourself during peak hours, especially when the index reaches its highest levels of 12 and 14 between noon and 2 PM. By monitoring the UV Index, you can ensure your outdoor activities remain safe and enjoyable while preventing harmful effects on your skin.

Hourly UV Index in Santa Barbara

Today’s UV Index shows a dramatic rise in intensity as the sun climbs higher in the sky. Starting with a gentle 1 at 7:00 AM, the index gradually increases, reaching a moderate 3 by 9:00 AM. As the clock strikes 11:00 AM, the UV Index peaks at an intense 12, marking a crucial time for sun safety. The highest reading occurs between 1:00 PM and 2:00 PM, where it reaches an exhilarating 14. As the day progresses, the UV levels begin to wane, dropping to 6 by 5:00 PM and eventually settling back to a 1 by 7:00 PM. Make sure to stay protected during the peak hours when the sun is at its 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.
TimeUVICategoryTime to Burn
07:001low45 min
08:001low45 min
09:003moderate30 min
10:005moderate30 min
11:009very high15 min
12:0012extreme10 min
13:0014extreme10 min
14:0014extreme10 min
15:0012extreme10 min
16:009very high15 min
17:006high25 min
18:003moderate30 min
19:001low45 min

Monthly UV Index Trends in Santa Barbara

Throughout the year, UV exposure varies significantly, with high-risk months from February to October, exhibiting consistently extreme UV Index levels between 11 to 15. Particularly, March to May stand out with the highest index of 15 in May, demanding vigilant sun protection with a minimum burn time of just 10 minutes. As winter approaches, January and February still pose a very high to extreme risk, while November and December see a decrease to very high, with burn times extending to 15 minutes. Visitors and residents are advised to utilize broad-spectrum sunscreen, wear protective clothing, and seek shade, especially during peak UV times, ensuring safety from harmful sun exposure.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Santa Barbara, Mexico

The monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) represents the highest UV radiation level recorded each month in Santa Barbara. It measures the strength of ultraviolet radiation from the sun and helps assess the risk of sunburn and UV-related health issues.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec912141415141414141298
Data source: Statistical UV Index data for Santa Barbara, 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 Barbara UV Index with Other Mexico Cities

The table above highlights how UV exposure in Santa Barbara 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 Barbara's solar exposure compared to other cities in Mexico. Generated using Copernicus Atmosphere Monitoring Service information.
 JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Guadalajara UVI911141414131313131298
Santa Barbara911141415141414141298
Iztapalapa UVI10121415141414141412108
Ecatepec de Morelos UVI10121415151414131412108
Mexico City UVI10121415151414131412108
Puebla UVI10121415151515141413109