Last updated: May 3, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is essential for residents and visitors in Santa Fe, Mexico. Given the region's Am climate, which often leads to high levels of ultraviolet exposure, being aware of UV levels can significantly impact your skin health and help prevent dangerous sunburns. With indices peaking at 13 around midday, it's crucial to take protective measures during the riskiest hours. By monitoring the UV Index, you can enjoy the beautiful sunny days of Santa Fe while keeping your skin safe from harmful effects. Stay informed and protect yourself under the radiant sun!
The UV Index displays a dynamic pattern throughout the day, starting with a gentle level 1 at 7:00 AM and 8:00 AM, perfect for early risers. As the sun climbs higher, the intensity increases sharply, peaking at a striking 12 around noon and reaching its zenith at 1 PM with an impressive 13. From that point, the index gradually declines, dropping to 6 by 4 PM, and then further down to a softer 3 by 5 PM. By evening, it returns to 1 at 6 PM, inviting a sense of relief as the day winds down. This data emphasizes the importance of sun safety, especially during those peak hours when the UV Index is at its highest.
| 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 | 9 | 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 |
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 |