UV Index in San Francisco, Mexico

Last updated: June 2, 2025

Understanding the UV Index in San Francisco, Mexico is crucial for everyone's skin health and overall well-being. The UV Index provides valuable insights into sun exposure levels, helping you prevent sunburn and long-term skin damage. With San Francisco's climate, which typically presents varying UV exposure risks throughout the day, awareness of UV levels can make a significant difference. As the sun rises, the UV Index can soar to a peak of 13 between noon and 1 PM, highlighting the importance of protective measures during those hours. Stay informed and protect your skin to enjoy the sunshine safely!

Hourly UV Index in San Francisco

As the sun rises, the UV Index begins at a gentle 1 at 7:00 AM, gradually increasing to 2 by 8:00 AM. By 9:00 AM, it reaches a moderate 4, but the intensity really ramps up at 10:00 AM, soaring to 8. The peak occurs at 12:00 PM, where the UV Index hits a staggering 13, remaining consistently high until 1:00 PM. As the afternoon progresses, it starts to decline, dipping to 12 at 2:00 PM and gradually falling to 3 by 5:00 PM. The day concludes with a return to a safer 1 by 7:00 PM, making it essential to stay protected during those intense 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	2	low	45 min
09:00	4	moderate	30 min
10:00	8	very high	15 min
11:00	11	extreme	10 min
12:00	13	extreme	10 min
13:00	13	extreme	10 min
14:00	12	extreme	10 min
15:00	9	very high	15 min
16:00	6	high	25 min
17:00	3	moderate	30 min
18:00	1	low	45 min
19:00	1	low	45 min

Monthly UV Index Trends in San Francisco

The UV Index demonstrates significant seasonal changes, with high-risk months identified from March to October, where the index reaches extreme levels. In these months, the UV Index peaks at 13 in April, May, and June, corresponding to a burn time of only 10 minutes. Even in January and February, the UV Index remains notably high at 8 and 10, making these months also pose risks. As fall approaches, the index begins to decline, dropping to 11 in October and further down to 8 and 7 during November and December, with longer burn times of 15 and 25 minutes respectively. For both visitors and residents, it is crucial to take precautions during the high-risk months, including applying broad-spectrum sunscreen, wearing protective clothing, and seeking shade, especially during midday hours to reduce the risk of sunburn and long-term skin damage.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for San Francisco, Mexico

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

The table above highlights how UV exposure in San Francisco 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 Francisco'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
San Francisco	8	10	12	13	13	13	12	12	12	11	8	7
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
Puebla UVI	10	12	14	15	15	15	15	14	14	13	10	9