UV Index
UV Index
Today's UV index in Costa Rica, Mexico 
will be up to 11.5, indicating a extreme level of sun exposure for the average person. Check our tips for today to make sure you're safe in the sun.
Last checked: 2025-05-10
UV index at 11.5 in Costa Rica means extreme risk: limit outdoor time especially from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., actively seek shade, wear protective clothing, broad-brimmed hat, apply SPF 30+ sunscreen every 2 hours, and wear UV-blocking sunglasses. Watch for bright surfaces like water and snow increasing UV exposure.
The UV index in Costa Rica is often high, especially during midday hours, usually ranging from 8 to 12 in many areas, indicating strong sun exposure. In Mexico, the UV index varies but can also reach very high levels, particularly in sunny regions and during summer months.
Costa Rica experiences a clear wet season from May to November with frequent rain and a dry season from December to April with little rain. Mexico has diverse climates, but generally, the rainy season is from June to October, and dry season spans November to May, varying by region.
Compared to neighboring countries, Costa Rica’s weather is consistently tropical with less temperature variation year-round. Mexico has more climate variety, including arid deserts and temperate highlands. Both countries share similar wet and dry seasonal patterns typical of Central America.
See the UV index hour by hour for Costa Rica, along with the temperature and how cloudy it is. If the UV level is higher than moderate, it's best to avoid direct sunlight.