UV Index in Medellin, Colombia

Last updated: May 3, 2025

In Medellín, Colombia, being aware of the UV Index is crucial for maintaining healthy skin and preventing sunburn, especially given the city's consistent exposure to sunlight throughout the year. Understanding UV levels helps residents and visitors alike take necessary precautions, ensuring they enjoy the beautiful weather without the harmful effects of excessive sun exposure. With a climate classified as Af, Medellín experiences significant UV intensity, peaking around midday with indices soaring to 15. By staying informed about daily UV readings, everyone can safeguard their skin health while fully embracing the vibrancy of this enchanting city.

Hourly UV Index in Medellin

The UV Index (UVI) depicts a fascinating daily dance of sun intensity. Starting at 07:00, the UVI is a gentle 1, gradually warming as it climbs to 4 by 08:00. As the sun peaks, the index skyrockets, reaching a blistering 12 at 10:00 and hitting its zenith of 15 during the late morning hours of 11:00 and 12:00. Following this high point, the numbers slightly decline, measuring 14 at 13:00, before dropping to 10 by 14:00. A steady retreat follows, settling at 6 at 15:00. By late afternoon and into the evening, the intensity wanes, finishing the day at 1 by 17:00 and sinking to 0 by 19:00. Overall, it's a compelling reminder to stay protected under the sun, especially during those peak hours!

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	4	moderate	30 min
09:00	8	very high	15 min
10:00	12	extreme	10 min
11:00	15	extreme	10 min
12:00	15	extreme	10 min
13:00	14	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 Medellin

Throughout the year, the UV Index remains alarmingly high, indicating extreme exposure risk, particularly from January to May and August to September, when values peak at 17 in March and typically range from 14 to 16 during these high-risk months. This consistent threat means that regardless of the time of year, visitors and residents should take precautionary measures when outdoors. To minimize the risk of sunburn, it is advised to limit direct exposure to the sun, especially during peak hours, and to use high-SPF sunscreen, wear protective clothing, and seek shade whenever possible. With a burn time of just 10 minutes, everyone should remain vigilant about their sun safety practices year-round.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Medellin, Colombia

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

The table above highlights how UV exposure in Medellin 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.

Medellin'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
Medellin	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