UV Index in El Salvador, Mexico

Last updated: August 1, 2025

Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors in El Salvador and Mexico alike, as it serves as a vital indicator of solar UV radiation intensity and its potential impact on skin health. With peak UV levels reaching a staggering 14 around midday, awareness of these fluctuations can significantly aid in sunburn prevention and overall skin protection. Given El Salvador's tropical climate with its strong sun exposure, grasping the implications of varying UV levels is essential for safeguarding your skin while enjoying the beautiful outdoors. Stay informed and protect yourself from harmful rays!

Hourly UV Index in El Salvador

The UV Index throughout the day showcases a significant increase in sun intensity, peaking at 14 around 1 PM and 2 PM. Starting off the morning, the index remains low, with values of 1 at 7 AM and 8 AM, gradually climbing to 2 by 9 AM. A noticeable surge occurs as the sun reaches its zenith, hitting 5 by 10 AM and soaring to 8 at 11 AM. As noon approaches, UV levels escalate to a striking 11, indicating a high risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure. Moving into the afternoon, the index slightly dips but remains elevated, measuring 13 at 3 PM. As the sun begins to set, the UV Index decreases, falling to 6 by 5 PM, before settling back down to 1 by the evening hours, reminding us to be vigilant during peak sun exposure times.

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	0	low	45 min
08:00	1	low	45 min
09:00	2	low	45 min
10:00	5	moderate	30 min
11:00	8	very high	15 min
12:00	11	extreme	10 min
13:00	13	extreme	10 min
14:00	14	extreme	10 min
15:00	12	extreme	10 min
16:00	9	very high	15 min
17:00	6	high	25 min
18:00	3	moderate	30 min
19:00	1	low	45 min

Monthly UV Index Trends in El Salvador

The seasonal UV changes indicate that the period between March and October presents the highest risks for sun exposure, with UV Index values consistently peaking at 14 during the summer months of May to August. Notably, March sees a significant jump to an extreme rating of 13, marking the start of high-risk months alongside April and September. Visitors and residents are strongly advised to take precautions during these high-risk months, especially from March to October, where the burn time can drop to just 10 minutes. Daily UV awareness is crucial; wearing sunscreen, protective clothing, and seeking shade during peak hours can significantly mitigate the risk of sunburn and long-term skin damage. November and December provide a slight respite with lower UV levels, yet caution is still encouraged in November where the UV Index remains very high.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for El Salvador, Mexico

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

The table above highlights how UV exposure in El Salvador 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.

El Salvador'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
El Salvador	8	10	13	14	14	14	14	14	13	12	9	7
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