UV Index in San Diego, Mexico

Last updated: July 2, 2025

In San Diego, Mexico, understanding the UV Index is crucial for maintaining skin health and preventing sunburn. With its typically sunny climate, this coastal paradise often exposes residents and visitors to significant ultraviolet radiation. The UV Index fluctuates throughout the day, reaching a peak of 12 around noon, signaling a high risk for harmful skin effects. By staying informed about UV levels, you can take necessary precautions to protect your skin and enjoy the beautiful South Californian sun responsibly.

Hourly UV Index in San Diego

As the day unfolds, the UV Index reveals a dramatic shift in sun intensity. Early hours, from 07:00 to 09:00, maintain a mild UV Index of 1 to 3, perfect for a leisurely morning stroll. However, the sun climbs higher, and by 10:00, the index spikes to 6, signaling a shift. At 11:00, it reaches 9, and by noon, it peaks at a scorching 11, indicating high risk for unprotected skin. The intensity remains intense at 12:00 and 13:00, with both hours registering a 12—a clear call to seek shade or apply ample sunscreen. As the afternoon unfolds, the UV Index begins to wane, dropping to 9 at 15:00, then tapering down to 4 by 17:00. Finally, as the sun sets, the UV levels lighten to 2 at 18:00 and retreat to 1 by 19:00, marking the end of the day’s sunlit adventure. 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	1	low	45 min
08:00	1	low	45 min
09:00	3	moderate	30 min
10:00	6	high	25 min
11:00	9	very high	15 min
12:00	11	extreme	10 min
13:00	12	extreme	10 min
14:00	12	extreme	10 min
15:00	9	very high	15 min
16:00	6	high	25 min
17:00	4	moderate	30 min
18:00	2	low	45 min
19:00	1	low	45 min

Monthly UV Index Trends in San Diego

Throughout the year, UV levels fluctuate, peaking during the spring and summer months. January starts with a high UV Index of 7, but by February, it rises significantly to 10, indicating very high risk with a burn time reduced to 15 minutes. The months of March through October consistently exhibit extreme UV conditions, with March and April reaching a peak Index of 13 and a burn time of just 10 minutes. July to September maintain a UV Index of 12, also allowing only 10 minutes for safe sun exposure. As the year progresses, November sees a drop to 8, while December ends with a high UV Index of 6. Visitors and residents are advised to exercise caution, especially from February through October, utilizing protective clothing, sunscreen, and limiting sun exposure during peak hours to minimize skin damage.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for San Diego, Mexico

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

The table above highlights how UV exposure in San Diego 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 Diego'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 Diego	7	10	11	13	13	12	12	12	12	11	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