UV Index in San Jose, Mexico

Last updated: July 2, 2025

Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors in San Jose, Mexico, where the sun’s rays can be especially intense. With the region's warm Am climate, knowing the UV levels helps you take essential precautions against sunburn and long-term skin damage. During peak hours, particularly between 11 AM and 1 PM, the UV Index can soar to a staggering 12 or even 13, indicating a very high risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure. Stay informed about these levels to safeguard your skin and enjoy the beautiful sunshine San Jose has to offer!

Hourly UV Index in San Jose

As the sun rises on this bright day, the UV Index starts off relatively low, peaking at just 1 at both 7:00 AM and 8:00 AM. However, by 9:00 AM, it jumps to 3, signaling an increase in UV exposure. The intensity escalates quickly, reaching a notable 6 by 10:00 AM. The real intensity hits its peak at 12:00 PM, when the UV Index soars to a striking 12, followed closely by a high of 13 at 1:00 PM. Over the next few hours, the index gradually diminishes, but still remains significant with 10 at 3:00 PM and 7 by 4:00 PM. As evening approaches, the levels continue to decline, returning to 1 once dusk settles in at 7:00 PM. Be sure to protect your skin!

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	12	extreme	10 min
13:00	13	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 Jose

The UV Index experiences significant seasonal fluctuations, peaking predominantly during the summer months. From January to March, the UV Index escalates from 9 (very high) to a peak of 13 (extreme) in April, consistent through July before gradually tapering off in the fall. High-risk months are marked from February to October, with particularly extreme values observed from March to September. During these months, the recommended burn time is as short as 10 minutes. Visitors and residents are strongly advised to take precautions, such as using sunscreen, wearing protective clothing, and seeking shade during peak hours, especially in April through September when UV levels are highest. As a general rule, remain vigilant about UV exposure year-round, as even in November and December, the UV Index remains high at 9 and 8, necessitating protective measures.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for San Jose, Mexico

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

The table above highlights how UV exposure in San Jose 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 Jose'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 Jose	9	11	13	13	13	14	13	13	12	11	9	8
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