UV Index in La Mesa, United States

Last updated: May 3, 2025

In La Mesa, United States, awareness of the UV Index is essential for maintaining skin health and preventing sunburn. Understanding UV levels helps residents and visitors alike make informed choices about sun protection, particularly in a region characterized by a dry climate typical of the BWk zone. With peak UV Index values reaching as high as 13 around midday, it's crucial to be vigilant to minimize risks related to overexposure. Ensure you prioritize your skin's safety while enjoying the sunny, vibrant atmosphere that La Mesa has to offer!

Hourly UV Index in La Mesa

The UV Index throughout the day presents a striking trajectory of rising intensity, peaking at 1 PM with a remarkable 13. Starting with a gentle 1 at 7 AM, the sun's rays gradually become more potent, hitting 10 at 11 AM and soaring to a critical 12 by noon. As the afternoon unfolds, the intensity remains strong, fluctuating between 12 and 9 from 1 PM to 3 PM, before gracefully tapering off. By 5 PM, the UV Index descends to 4, and as the day closes, it winds down to a soft 1 by 7 PM. Stay vigilant during those midday hours to protect your skin from the sun's fierce embrace!

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	2	low	45 min
09:00	4	moderate	30 min
10:00	7	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	4	moderate	30 min
18:00	2	low	45 min
19:00	1	low	45 min

Monthly UV Index Trends in La Mesa

Throughout the year, the UV Index exhibits significant seasonal variations, with the highest values typically occurring from March to September. This period is particularly critical for sun exposure, as March begins with a UV Index of 10, escalating to a peak of 13 in May, June, and July, and only slightly decreasing to 11 in September. The months of April to August are classified as having an extreme exposure category, with a rapid burn time of just 10 minutes, indicating a high risk of skin damage. Conversely, in the winter months of January and December, the UV Index lowers to 5, categorized as moderate, allowing for longer burn times of 30 minutes. Visitors and residents should exercise increased caution, particularly in the high-risk months of March to September, ensuring to wear sunscreen, seek shade, and limit direct sun exposure, especially during midday hours.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for La Mesa, United States

The monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) represents the highest UV radiation level recorded each month in La Mesa. 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 La Mesa, 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 La Mesa UV Index with Other United States Cities

The table above highlights how UV exposure in La Mesa compares to other major locations across United States. This comparison helps travelers and residents better understand regional sun intensity and plan outdoor activities with sun safety in mind.

La Mesa's solar exposure compared to other cities in United States. Generated using Copernicus Atmosphere Monitoring Service information.
	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Chicago UVI	3	4	6	8	9	10	10	9	8	6	4	2
Brooklyn UVI	3	5	6	8	10	10	9	9	8	6	4	2
New York City UVI	3	5	6	8	10	10	9	9	8	6	4	2
Los Angeles UVI	4	6	8	9	10	11	11	10	10	7	5	4
Houston UVI	5	8	9	11	11	12	12	11	10	9	7	5
La Mesa	5	7	10	12	13	13	13	12	11	9	6	5