Last updated: June 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index in Santa Cruz, Mexico is crucial for safeguarding your skin health and preventing sunburn, especially in a region known for its dry, semi-arid climate. With UV levels reaching a maximum of 13 around noon, the intensity of sunlight can pose significant risks if proper precautions aren’t taken. Santa Cruz's climate, characterized by hot summers and mild winters, means that residents and visitors alike need to be vigilant about sun exposure. By staying informed about daily UV levels, you can enjoy the beautiful outdoors while effectively protecting your skin against harmful ultraviolet rays.
As the sun rises, the UV Index starts off gentle at 2 at 07:00, making it a comfortable time for morning activities. The intensity ramps up quickly, reaching 3 by 08:00, heralding a day of higher UV exposure. By 09:00, the index hits 6, urging caution as midday approaches. The peak arrives between 11:00 and 12:00, with the UV Index soaring to an impressive 12 and then 13, signaling that peak sun intensity is at hand. Even as the clock strikes 13:00, it remains potent at 12 before gradually softening in the following hours. By 15:00, the index drops to 8, finally settling at a milder 2 by 17:00. As evening sets in, the UV levels dwindle, resting at 1 by 18:00 and maintaining that low level through 19:00, providing a gentle end to the day's UV journey. Remember to take precautions during the peak hours for safe sun enjoyment!
| Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 08:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 09:00 | 6 | high | 25 min |
| 10:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 11:00 | 12 | extreme | 10 min |
| 12:00 | 13 | extreme | 10 min |
| 13:00 | 12 | extreme | 10 min |
| 14:00 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
| 15:00 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
| 16:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 17:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 18:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 19:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
Throughout the year, UV exposure varies significantly, with higher intensity noted from February to September. The highest risk months are April to September, where the UV Index peaks at 12 to 13 and the potential burn time shortens to just 10 minutes. Notably, February and March also present higher risk levels, with an index of 8 and 10, respectively. Visitors and residents should take precautionary measures during these months, such as wearing protective clothing, applying sunscreen with high SPF, and seeking shade, particularly during midday hours when UV exposure is at its peak. In contrast, January, November, and December offer moderate exposure, with burn times of 30 min or more, although protection is still advisable.
UV Risk Categories
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Santa Cruz | 5 | 8 | 10 | 12 | 12 | 13 | 12 | 12 | 11 | 9 | 6 | 5 |
| 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 |