UV Index in Caldas, Colombia

Last updated: June 2, 2025

Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors in Caldas, Colombia, as it plays a pivotal role in safeguarding skin health and preventing sunburn. With a warm Af climate, Caldas experiences significant sun exposure throughout the day, hitting a peak UV Index of 14 around noon. This high level of UV radiation can lead to serious skin damage if precautions aren't taken. By staying informed about daily UV levels, you can effectively plan your outdoor activities and protect yourself from the harmful effects of the sun. Prioritize your skin's well-being and enjoy all that Caldas has to offer while staying safe under the sun!

Hourly UV Index in Caldas

The UV Index for the day displayed a striking increase as the sun climbed higher in the sky. Starting at a gentle 1 by 7:00 AM, it swiftly rose to a moderate 3 by 8:00 AM. As the clock struck 9:00 AM, the intensity shot up to a significant 7, reaching a peak of 14 at 12:00 PM—the optimal time for sun protection. The afternoon saw a gradual decline, with readings of 13 at 1:00 PM and 10 by 2:00 PM. As the sun set, the UV Index dwindled, dropping to 3 at 4:00 PM and finally retreating to a safe 0 by 7:00 PM. This data highlights the importance of midday sun safety, making it essential to reapply sunscreen and seek shade when UV levels are at their 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.
Time	UVI	Category	Time to Burn
07:00	1	low	45 min
08:00	3	moderate	30 min
09:00	7	high	25 min
10:00	11	extreme	10 min
11:00	13	extreme	10 min
12:00	14	extreme	10 min
13:00	13	extreme	10 min
14:00	10	very high	15 min
15:00	6	high	25 min
16:00	3	moderate	30 min
17:00	1	low	45 min
18:00	1	low	45 min
19:00	0	low	45 min

Monthly UV Index Trends in Caldas

Across the year, the UV Index remains extremely high, with only slight variations, peaking at 16 in March and April. This consistent exposure means that January through May, as well as September through November, remain particularly high-risk months for sunburn, with a burn time as short as 10 minutes regardless of the month. Visitors and residents should take precautionary measures, such as wearing broad-spectrum sunscreen, protective clothing, and wide-brimmed hats when outdoors, especially during peak sun hours. Being mindful of UV exposure is essential for skin health all year round.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Caldas, Colombia

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

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

Caldas's solar exposure compared to other cities in Colombia. Generated using Copernicus Atmosphere Monitoring Service information.
	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Barranquilla UVI	11	12	14	14	13	12	13	13	13	13	11	10
Cartagena UVI	11	11	13	15	13	13	12	13	13	13	11	10
Caldas	13	15	16	16	15	14	14	14	14	14	13	12
Medellin UVI	14	15	17	16	16	14	14	15	14	14	13	12
Cali UVI	15	16	17	17	15	14	14	14	15	14	13	12
Bogota UVI	15	16	18	18	17	15	15	16	15	15	14	13