UV Index in Santa Monica, Mexico

Last updated: June 2, 2025

Understanding the UV Index in Santa Monica, Mexico is crucial for protecting your skin and overall health. With a climate categorized as BSk, residents and visitors alike experience significant UV exposure, particularly during peak hours. As the UV levels can soar to an alarming 14 around midday, being aware of these fluctuations is essential for preventing sunburn and long-term skin damage. Embracing this knowledge allows you to enjoy the beautiful sunny days while taking necessary precautions to safeguard your skin against harmful rays.

Hourly UV Index in Santa Monica

The UV Index for the day reveals a stark rise in intensity as the sun climbs higher in the sky. Starting at a mild 0 at 07:00, it gradually increases to 1 by 08:00. By 10:00, the index reaches 5, indicating that precautions are advised. The peak occurs at 12:00, where the UV Index soars to a scorching 12, followed closely by a maximum of 14 at both 13:00 and 14:00. From there, a gentle decline begins, with values dropping to 10 at 16:00 and tapering off to 6 by 17:00. As the evening approaches, the index falls to 3 by 18:00, and finally to 1 at 19:00, signaling a significant drop in UV exposure. Protective measures are essential during the mid-day hours to ensure safety from harmful sun exposure!

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	12	extreme	10 min
13:00	14	extreme	10 min
14:00	14	extreme	10 min
15:00	12	extreme	10 min
16:00	10	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 Santa Monica

The UV Index demonstrates significant seasonal changes, peaking during the late spring and summer months. From January to March, the index starts high but quickly escalates, reaching its maximum of 15 in both April and May. The months of February to October pose the highest risk, with an extreme exposure category, where the burn time is notably short at 10 minutes. Visitors and residents should be particularly vigilant during these high-risk months, especially from February to October, and adopt protective measures such as wearing sunscreen, hats, and protective clothing. As we approach the fall and winter months, the UV risk decreases but remains notably high in November and December. It is essential to stay informed and protect your skin year-round.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Santa Monica, Mexico

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

The table above highlights how UV exposure in Santa Monica 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 Monica'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
Santa Monica	9	11	14	15	15	14	14	14	14	12	10	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