Last updated: August 1, 2025
Understanding the UV Index in Santa Ana, Mexico is crucial for protecting your skin from harmful ultraviolet rays. Given the region's arid climate and high-altitude sun exposure, awareness of UV levels can significantly mitigate the risk of sunburn, skin damage, and long-term health issues. With peak UV ratings soaring to 12 around midday, it’s vital to monitor these fluctuations throughout the day, particularly during the sunny hours when you’re most susceptible. Stay informed and proactive to enjoy the beautiful weather while keeping your skin safe!
The UV Index data for the day reveals a clear progression of solar intensity as the hours unfold. Starting the morning with low values of 1 at 7:00 AM and 8:00 AM, the index begins to rise significantly by 9:00 AM, reaching 3. The sun's potency peaks sharply at 12:00 PM with a staggering value of 11, indicating a high risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure. This intensity remains elevated at 12 from 1:00 PM to 2:00 PM, before starting to decline as the afternoon turns to evening. By 3:00 PM, it falls to 10, and further decreases to 4 by 5:00 PM. As the sun sets, the UV Index tapers off to 2 at 6:00 PM and returns to 1 by 7:00 PM. It’s a day that strongly emphasizes the importance of sun safety during peak hours!
| 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 | 9 | 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 |
Throughout the year, the UV Index exhibits significant seasonal changes, with the highest risk months occurring from February to September. During these months, particularly in April and May, the UV Index reaches an alarming 13, classified as extreme, indicating a burn time of only 10 minutes. Even in March, the UV risk is notably high at 10, while October’s levels drop to 10 but remain in the very high category. Visitors and residents are strongly advised to take precautionary measures, such as wearing sunscreen, protective clothing, and wide-brimmed hats, especially during peak hours when the UV index is highest. As we move into the winter months, while the UV risk decreases in November and December, maintaining sun safety practices remains essential for overall skin health.
UV Risk Categories
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Santa Ana | 6 | 9 | 10 | 12 | 13 | 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 |