UV Index in Medellin, Colombia

Last updated: June 2, 2025

Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors in Medellin, Colombia, where the climate consistently presents sun exposure challenges due to its tropical highland environment. With UV levels often peaking at 14, awareness of these levels is vital for effective sunburn prevention and long-term skin health. Knowing when to seek shade and wear protective clothing can significantly reduce your risk of harmful UV radiation, particularly during peak hours from 10 AM to 2 PM. Given Medellin's unique climate, learning about the UV Index isn’t just beneficial—it's essential for enjoying the vibrant outdoors safely.

Hourly UV Index in Medellin

At 07:00, the UV Index starts modestly at 1, but as the sun rises higher, it dramatically escalates. By 09:00, it reaches 7, indicating a notable increase in ultraviolet exposure. The peak occurs at 11:00 and 12:00, where the index hits a striking 14, suggesting the need for serious sun protection. As the afternoon unfolds, levels gradually decline: dipping to 10 by 14:00 and further down to 6 by 15:00. The late afternoon and evening see a gentle drop-off, with the index returning to 1 by 17:00, and then settling at 0 by 19:00. Overall, it's a day to stay vigilant under the sun from mid-morning to early afternoon!

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	7	high	25 min
10:00	11	extreme	10 min
11:00	14	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 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