Last updated: June 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors in Santa Martha, Mexico, as it provides essential information about potential sun exposure and its associated health risks. The UV Index helps guide sun safety practices, protecting against sunburn and long-term skin damage. With Santa Martha's warm, sunny climate, the UV levels can peak significantly, reaching a maximum of 12 between noon and 2 PM, indicating a very high risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure. Being aware of these levels allows you to take proactive measures to enjoy the beautiful sun without compromising skin health. Remember, staying informed is key to a safe and enjoyable outdoor experience!
The UV Index today reveals a dynamic shift in sun exposure, starting off at a gentle 1 at 07:00 AM and 08:00 AM. As the day progresses, it climbs steadily, reaching 2 by 09:00 AM. The real intensity hits around 11:00 AM, peaking at an impressive 12 by 1:00 PM and 2:00 PM, indicating a high risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure. After this peak, the index begins to taper off, dropping to 10 by 3:00 PM and easing down to 1 by 7:00 PM. Remember, as you enjoy the sun, take precautions during those peak hours for your skin's safety!
| 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 | 10 | very high | 15 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 |
The UV Index exhibits significant seasonal variation, with the highest values occurring from February through September, marking a period of extreme sun exposure. Notably, March through August are classified as high-risk months, featuring an extreme exposure category with a UV Index consistently at 12 or higher—which necessitates caution, as the burn time is a mere 10 minutes. Residents and visitors should prioritize sun safety during these months by wearing protective clothing, using broad-spectrum sunscreen, and seeking shade during peak hours. As the year progresses, a drop in UV intensity occurs, with October through December seeing lower levels that still warrant attention, particularly in October and November, when the UV Index registers as very high. Taking these precautions can help mitigate the risk of harmful UV exposure year-round.
UV Risk Categories
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Santa Martha | 7 | 9 | 12 | 12 | 12 | 12 | 13 | 12 | 12 | 10 | 8 | 6 |
| 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 |