Last updated: June 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index in Santa Catarina, Mexico, is essential for maintaining healthy skin and preventing sunburn. With the region experiencing a Cwa climate, characterized by warm summers and distinct dry seasons, the risk of harmful UV exposure rises significantly, particularly during midday hours when the index peaks at 13. By being aware of UV levels, residents and visitors can take proactive steps to safeguard their skin against ultraviolet radiation, ensuring a more enjoyable and safer outdoor experience. Whether you're soaking up the sun or engaging in outdoor activities, staying informed about the UV Index is crucial for your skin's health and overall well-being.
As the sun rises at 07:00, the UV Index starts off at a safe level of 1, gradually climbing to 2 by 09:00. But as the clock strikes 10:00, the intensity ramps up significantly, reaching 5. The UV Index peaks at a scorching 13 between 13:00 and 14:00, signaling the most hazardous hours of the day. Afterward, it begins to taper off, dipping to 5 by 17:00, before winding down to 3 at 18:00 and finally returning to a minimal 1 by 19:00. To keep your skin safe during those midday hours, it's essential to take precautionary measures when enjoying the outdoors!
| Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07:00 | 1 | 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 | 13 | extreme | 10 min |
| 14:00 | 13 | extreme | 10 min |
| 15:00 | 11 | extreme | 10 min |
| 16:00 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
| 17:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 18:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 19:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
The UV index experiences significant seasonal variation, peaking during the spring and summer months. January and February show a very high UV Index of 8 and 10, respectively, with a burn time of just 15 minutes. However, from March through October, the indices reach extreme levels, peaking at 14 in April and July, where the burn time drops to just 10 minutes. High-risk months for UV exposure are March to October, making it essential for visitors and residents to take precautions, such as wearing protective clothing, using sunscreen, and seeking shade during peak hours. As we move into November and December, the UV Index decreases, though exposure risks remain; November is still very high at 9, while December sees a high index of 7 with a longer burn time of 25 minutes. Thus, vigilance is advised year-round, particularly from late winter to early autumn.
UV Risk Categories
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Santa Catarina | 8 | 10 | 13 | 14 | 13 | 13 | 14 | 13 | 13 | 11 | 9 | 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 |