UV Index in San Rafael, Mexico

Last updated: August 1, 2025

In San Rafael, Mexico, understanding the UV Index is essential for protecting your skin and overall health. With its warm, sunny climate, residents and visitors alike face varying risks of UV exposure throughout the day. High UV levels, especially during peak hours from 11 AM to 3 PM, can lead to sunburn, premature aging, and increased skin cancer risks. By keeping an eye on the UV Index, you can make informed decisions about sun protection, ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience in this vibrant locale.

Hourly UV Index in San Rafael

As the sun rises, the UV Index begins at a mild 1 at 07:00, remaining steady through the early hours. However, by 09:00, it climbs to 3, signaling the start of stronger rays. The peak intensity strikes at 12:00, reaching an intense 11, followed closely by a maximum of 12 at 13:00 and 14:00, urging outdoor enthusiasts to take precautions. As the afternoon wanes, the index gradually decreases from 10 at 15:00 to a more manageable 4 by 17:00, and finally recedes to 2 at 18:00 before settling back at 1 as dusk approaches. It's a day that underscores the importance of sun safety, especially during its mid-day zenith!

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	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	7	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 Rafael

The UV Index varies significantly throughout the year, with high-risk months typically from February to September, where values reach their peak during April to August at an extreme level of 12. Visitors and residents should exercise caution during these months, especially due to the reduced burn time of just 10 minutes for peak exposure. Even in the earlier months like January, the UV Index of 6 poses a high risk, while October transitions to a lower but still significant 10, necessitating protective measures. To minimize the risk of sunburn and long-term skin damage, it is advisable to wear protective clothing, apply sunscreen regularly, and seek shade during peak sun hours, particularly between 10 AM and 4 PM.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for San Rafael, Mexico

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

The table above highlights how UV exposure in San Rafael 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 Rafael'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 Rafael	6	9	10	12	12	12	12	12	12	10	7	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