UV Index in Santa Fe, United States

Last updated: May 3, 2025

In Santa Fe, understanding the UV Index is crucial for protecting your skin and overall health. With deserts and sunny skies, the area's UV levels can soar, especially between 10 AM and 2 PM when they peak at a remarkable 12—signifying a severe risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure. Being aware of these levels helps prevent sunburn, reducing the risk of long-term skin damage and conditions like skin cancer. Given Santa Fe’s climate, where high UV radiation can be a daily occurrence, staying informed is your best defense against the sun's potent rays.

Hourly UV Index in Santa Fe

Throughout the day, the UV Index displayed a dynamic pattern, peaking at an intense 12 around 1 PM. Starting off gently at 1 by 7 AM, it climbed steadily, reaching 9 by 11 AM, a clear sign to take precautions. As the sun approached its zenith, the index swelled to its maximum at 12 PM, emphasizing the importance of sun safety. Following the midday peak, the index gradually decreased, dropping to 9 by 3 PM, then tapering off further to 2 by 6 PM and 1 by 7 PM. This data underscores the significance of shielding oneself from the sun's harmful rays during the day, especially when the UV Index is at its highest.

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.
TimeUVICategoryTime to Burn
07:001low45 min
08:002low45 min
09:004moderate30 min
10:007high25 min
11:009very high15 min
12:0011extreme10 min
13:0012extreme10 min
14:0011extreme10 min
15:009very high15 min
16:006high25 min
17:004moderate30 min
18:002low45 min
19:001low45 min

Monthly UV Index Trends in Santa Fe

Throughout the year, the UV Index exhibits notable seasonal changes, escalating from a moderate level of 5 in January to a peak of 13 during the summer months of June and July, categorized as extreme exposure risk. The highest risks for sunburn occur from February to September, with April to August being particularly critical, where the burn time is drastically reduced to 10 minutes. As the UV Index decreases to 8 in October and returns to moderate levels by November and December, residents and visitors are consistently reminded to take precautions during the high-risk months, particularly by seeking shade, wearing protective clothing, and applying sunscreen regularly to shield themselves against potential skin damage.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Santa Fe, United States

The monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) represents the highest UV radiation level recorded each month in Santa Fe. It measures the strength of ultraviolet radiation from the sun and helps assess the risk of sunburn and UV-related health issues.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec589111213131211854
Data source: Statistical UV Index data for Santa Fe, 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 Fe UV Index with Other United States Cities

The table above highlights how UV exposure in Santa Fe 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.
Santa Fe's solar exposure compared to other cities in United States. Generated using Copernicus Atmosphere Monitoring Service information.
 JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Chicago UVI34689101098642
Brooklyn UVI35681010998642
New York City UVI35681010998642
Los Angeles UVI46891011111010754
Houston UVI589111112121110975
Santa Fe589111213131211854