Last updated: June 2, 2025
In sunny Santa Fe, Mexico, awareness of the UV Index is crucial for safeguarding your skin and overall health. Understanding UV levels is key in preventing sunburn and long-term damage, especially in this high-altitude climate where UV radiation can be stronger than in lower elevations. With peak UV Index values soaring to 13 during midday, it's essential for residents and visitors alike to be informed about their exposure risks and take necessary precautions to enjoy the beautiful sun safely. Stay protected and make skin health a priority while soaking in Santa Fe's vibrant outdoor life!
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!
| 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 |
The UV Index experiences significant fluctuations throughout the year, with January and February marking the start of very high UV levels at 9 and 10 respectively, where the burn time is just 15 minutes. As spring approaches, particularly in March and April, the UV Index escalates to extreme levels, peaking at 13, with critical burn times reducing to 10 minutes. This intensity continues through the summer months of May, June, July, and August. Notably, July is particularly hazardous, maintaining a high UV Index of 13. As autumn arrives, from September to October, the UV levels remain extreme, although slightly less intense at 11. As winter settles in, November and December witness a return to very high categories, dropping to 9 and 8 respectively. Given these conditions, it is imperative for visitors and residents to take precautions during the high-risk months from March through October, emphasizing the importance of sunscreen, protective clothing, and limited sun exposure during peak hours to minimize the risks of sunburn and long-term skin damage.
UV Risk Categories
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Santa Fe | 9 | 10 | 12 | 13 | 12 | 13 | 13 | 12 | 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 |