UV Index in Santa Elena, Mexico

Last updated: June 2, 2025

Understanding the UV Index in Santa Elena, Mexico, is crucial for maintaining skin health and preventing painful sunburns. With the region's Aw climate, characterized by warm temperatures and abundant sunshine, residents and visitors alike must be aware of the varying UV levels throughout the day. The UV Index can reach a peak of 12 at midday, indicating an increased risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure. By learning to monitor these levels, you can take proactive steps to protect your skin, enjoy the outdoors safely, and minimize long-term health risks associated with UV radiation.

Hourly UV Index in Santa Elena

The UV Index provides crucial insight into sun exposure throughout the day, peaking dramatically during mid-afternoon. Starting gently at 1 from 07:00 to 09:00, it quickly escalates, reaching 5 by 10:00. The heart of the day sees the UV Index soar, peaking at an intense 12 from 13:00 to 14:00, indicating a high risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure. As the sun begins its descent, the UV levels gradually decline, tapering off to 5 by 17:00, and returning to a safer 1 by sunset at 19:00. For anyone planning outdoor activities, it’s essential to seek shade and protect skin 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	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	12	extreme	10 min
14:00	12	extreme	10 min
15:00	11	extreme	10 min
16:00	8	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 Elena

Throughout the year, the UV Index demonstrates significant seasonal fluctuations, with the highest values occurring from March to October. February through October are particularly high-risk months, where the UV Index reaches extreme levels (12 or above) from March to October, peaking at 13 in July. The burn time during these months is notably reduced, often as short as 10 minutes, emphasizing the importance of protecting one's skin. In contrast, January and December show high UV levels with longer burn times of 25 minutes. Visitors and residents alike should take precautions during these high-risk months by wearing protective clothing, using sunscreen, and seeking shade to minimize UV exposure, especially during midday hours.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Santa Elena, Mexico

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

The table above highlights how UV exposure in Santa Elena 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 Elena'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
Santa Elena	7	9	12	12	12	12	13	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