ALBUQUERQUE, NEW MEXICO — As record-breaking heat continues across New Mexico, another striking statistic is emerging: the UV index is forecast to reach extreme levels, tying values typically seen in Miami, Florida at solar noon.
According to the latest UV index forecast valid for midday March 21, much of New Mexico is expected to register a UV index of 9, placing it firmly in the “Very High” to near “Extreme” category.
New Mexico Matching Miami’s Sun Intensity
The map shows southern Florida, including Miami, also reaching a UV index of 9 — a level more commonly associated with tropical or subtropical regions.
Seeing similar numbers across interior portions of the Southwest in March underscores how intense the sun angle and atmospheric conditions currently are over New Mexico…