Last updated: June 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors of Giraldo, Colombia, where the combination of a temperate climate (Cfb) and high elevation can lead to increased UV exposure. Knowing the UV levels can significantly help in preventing sunburn and promoting long-term skin health, especially during peak hours when the index soars to a maximum of 14 around noon. With typical UV risks peaking between 10 AM and 2 PM, being aware of these levels is essential for enjoying outdoor activities safely while protecting your skin from harmful effects.
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.
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 |
Throughout the year, the UV Index shows consistently high values, predominantly categorized as extreme. The highest readings occur from January to May, peaking at 16 in March, April, and May, which indicates a high-risk period for sun exposure. Visitors and residents should take precautionary measures during these months, limiting outdoor activities to the early morning or late afternoon and ensuring they use broad-spectrum sunscreen, wear protective clothing, and seek shade. While UV levels slightly decrease during the summer months of June to August, they remain in the 14 range, still warranting vigilance. As the year progresses into fall and winter, UV Index values gradually decline to 12 by December, yet precautions should still be taken throughout the year, especially from January to September.
UV Risk Categories
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 |
Giraldo | 14 | 15 | 16 | 16 | 16 | 14 | 14 | 14 | 15 | 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 |