UV Index in Santa Barbara, Mexico

Last updated: May 3, 2025

Understanding the UV Index is crucial in Santa Barbara, Mexico, where the sun’s rays can be intense throughout the year. Being informed about UV levels is vital for sunburn prevention and maintaining healthy skin, particularly in a region known for its arid climate and high daytime temperatures. With UV Index readings peaking at a striking 15 during midday hours, it’s essential to take precautions to protect yourself. As you enjoy the beautiful sun-drenched days in Santa Barbara, staying aware of these levels can help you enjoy the outdoors safely while minimizing the risks associated with overexposure.

Hourly UV Index in Santa Barbara

The UV Index throughout the day presents a fascinating journey of sunlight intensity, peaking dramatically between 12 PM and 2 PM. Starting the morning with a gentle UV Index of 1 at 7 AM, the sun gradually warms up, reaching 3 by 9 AM. However, it's the midday sun that truly asserts itself, soaring to a striking 15 at 1 PM, when sun safety is paramount. As the afternoon progresses, the index begins to decline, dropping to 9 by 4 PM and fading to a tranquil 1 by 7 PM. With such a pronounced peak, it's essential to remain vigilant during those hours of highest exposure—remember to wear sunscreen, seek shade, and stay hydrated!

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	9	very high	15 min
12:00	13	extreme	10 min
13:00	15	extreme	10 min
14:00	15	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 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.

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.
	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 Barbara	9	11	14	14	15	14	14	14	14	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
Puebla UVI	10	12	14	15	15	15	15	14	14	13	10	9