UV Index in Santa Cruz, Mexico

Last updated: July 2, 2025

Awareness of the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors in Santa Cruz, Mexico, where the sun can be both a source of enjoyment and a potential hazard. Understanding UV levels is essential for preventing sunburn and protecting your skin health, especially during peak sunlight hours. With a BSk climate characterized by intense sun exposure, it's vital to be informed about the high UV levels typically reaching a maximum of 14 around midday. Keeping an eye on the UV Index not only helps safeguard your skin but ensures you can enjoy the beautiful beaches and outdoor activities that Santa Cruz has to offer, safely and responsibly.

Hourly UV Index in Santa Cruz

As the sun rises, the UV Index gradually climbs, starting at 0 at 7:00 AM—a safe time for outdoor activities. By 9:00 AM, it reaches 2, indicating a mild risk. However, as the day progresses, the intensity peaks at 12:00 PM with a high of 11, and again at 1:00 PM and 2:00 PM, both hitting an alarming 14. This represents a very high risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure, urging caution for those outdoors. The afternoon sees a slight drop, with the index falling to 9 at 4:00 PM and tapering off as the sun begins to set, closing out the day at 1 by 7:00 PM. Remember to stay protected during those peak 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	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	11	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	6	high	25 min
18:00	3	moderate	30 min
19:00	1	low	45 min

Monthly UV Index Trends in Santa Cruz

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 Cruz, Mexico

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

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