UV Index in Santa Cruz, Mexico

Last updated: June 2, 2025

In Santa Cruz, Mexico, being aware of the UV Index is crucial for maintaining your skin's health and preventing painful sunburns. With a predominantly warm climate, the region experiences significant sun exposure, particularly during peak hours from 10 AM to 3 PM, when UV levels can soar to as high as 13. Understanding these UV levels is not just about avoiding discomfort; it’s essential for long-term skin protection and overall health. As you enjoy the beautiful sunny days in Santa Cruz, stay informed about the UV Index to keep your skin safe and healthy!

Hourly UV Index in Santa Cruz

The UV Index throughout the day reveals a dramatic shift in sun exposure, peaking at 12:00 PM with an intense 12, signaling the need for sun protection. As the day warms up, 9:00 AM starts with a mild 3, but by 11:00 AM, it surges to a striking 10, indicating high risk for unprotected skin. The highest point arrives at 1:00 PM with a peak of 13, where UV rays are at their strongest. As the afternoon progresses, the index gradually declines, settling back to a comfortable 3 by 5:00 PM and dropping to 1 as evening approaches. It's essential to be mindful of this UV fluctuation, especially during peak hours!

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	10	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	6	high	25 min
17:00	3	moderate	30 min
18:00	1	low	45 min
19:00	1	low	45 min

Monthly UV Index Trends in Santa Cruz

The UV Index experiences significant variations throughout the year, reaching its peak during the spring and summer months. From January to April, the UV levels start at 9 and escalate to 14 by April, indicating an extreme exposure category with a rapid decrease in burn time to just 10 minutes. This high-risk period continues through May to October, where the UV Index remains at 12 to 13, maintaining the extreme classification and a burn time of 10 minutes. In November and December, the UV Index decreases to 9 and 8 respectively, categorized as very high, with burn times extending to 15 minutes. Visitors and residents should take proactive measures, especially from February to October, by wearing protective clothing, applying broad-spectrum sunscreen, and seeking shade during peak hours to minimize the risk of sunburn and long-term skin damage.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Santa Cruz, Mexico

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

The table above highlights how UV exposure in Santa Cruz 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.

Santa Cruz'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
Santa Cruz	9	11	13	14	13	13	13	13	13	12	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