UV Index in San Diego, Mexico

Last updated: May 3, 2025

Understanding the UV Index in San Diego, Mexico is essential for protecting your skin and overall health. With sun exposure peaking during the day, being informed about UV levels can help you prevent sunburn and long-term skin damage. San Diego’s sunny climate offers beautiful weather year-round, but it also carries risks of intense UV radiation, especially between 11 AM and 3 PM when the index soars to dangerous levels. By staying aware of the UV Index, you can enjoy the outdoors while safeguarding your skin against harmful effects.

Hourly UV Index in San Diego

The UV Index data for the day reveals notable variations throughout the hours. Beginning with a mild start at 07:00 with a UV Index of 1, the intensity gradually ramps up, peaking at 12:00 when it reaches its maximum of 13. This signifies a high risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure, particularly between 11:00 and 13:00, when the index soars to its zenith of 12. The afternoon sees a gentle decline, with values dropping to 9 by 15:00, and gradually tapering off as the sun sets, returning to a low of 1 by 19:00. It’s a clear reminder to plan sun protection strategies around midday when the sun is at its strongest!

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	6	high	25 min
11:00	9	very high	15 min
12:00	12	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	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