UV Index in Monterrey, Mexico

Last updated: July 2, 2025

In Monterrey, Mexico, being aware of the UV Index is crucial for safeguarding your skin health and preventing sunburn. With the region's Cfb climate, characterized by warm summers and mild winters, understanding UV levels becomes essential, especially during peak sun hours. At midday, Monterrey experiences dangerously high UV exposure, peaking at an intensity of 15—a stark reminder to take protective measures. By staying informed about the UV Index, residents and visitors can enjoy the sun safely, minimizing the risks associated with overexposure.

Hourly UV Index in Monterrey

The UV Index starts low in the morning, with values of 1 at both 07:00 and 08:00. As the day unfolds, it ** climbs steadily**, peaking at a striking 15 during the afternoon hours of 13:00 and 14:00. This indicates an intense level of UV radiation, which necessitates taking precautions against sun exposure. By 15:00, the index begins to dip, indicating a gradual decrease in UV intensity, falling to 5 by 17:00. As evening approaches, the index cools down to 2 at 18:00 and returns to a benign 1 by 19:00. This significant rise and fall highlight the importance of monitoring the UV Index, especially during peak hours when outdoor activities can lead to increased risk of sunburn.

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	13	extreme	10 min
13:00	15	extreme	10 min
14:00	15	extreme	10 min
15:00	13	extreme	10 min
16:00	9	very high	15 min
17:00	5	moderate	30 min
18:00	2	low	45 min
19:00	1	low	45 min

Monthly UV Index Trends in Monterrey

Throughout the year, the UV Index exhibits significant seasonal changes, with the highest values occurring from February to September, marking this period as high-risk for UV exposure. Monthly values peak at 15 from April to July, categorizing these months as experiencing extreme UV exposure, where even brief sun exposure can lead to skin damage in just 10 minutes. January and November see somewhat lower levels classified as very high, with a burn time of 15 minutes. Visitors and residents are advised to take precautionary measures during these high-risk months by wearing protective clothing, applying high-SPF sunscreen regularly, and seeking shade during peak sun hours to minimize the risk of UV-related health issues.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Monterrey, Mexico

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

The table above highlights how UV exposure in Monterrey 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.

Monterrey'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
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
Monterrey	10	12	14	15	14	15	15	14	14	12	10	9
Puebla UVI	10	12	14	15	15	15	15	14	14	13	10	9