UV Index in Olaya, Colombia

Last updated: June 2, 2025

Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors in Olaya, Colombia, where the sun can be both a source of warmth and a potential health risk. With a climate classified as Cfb, the region experiences a mix of sun and shade, but during peak hours, UV levels can soar to a dangerous 15 at noon, making it essential to be aware of your sun exposure. Knowing the UV levels helps prevent sunburn and promotes skin health, allowing you to enjoy the beautiful outdoors while protecting yourself. By monitoring the UV Index, you can take necessary precautions to keep your skin safe from harmful rays, especially during the hours when the sun is strongest.

Hourly UV Index in Olaya

As the sun rises on a new day, the UV Index begins at a modest 1 at 7:00 AM, gradually climbing to reach its peak of 15 by 12:00 PM. The hours between 9:00 AM and 1:00 PM showcase the sun's intensity, highlighted by a significant spike to 11 at 10:00 AM and 14 at 11:00 AM. However, by the afternoon, the radiation starts to wane, dropping to 6 at 3:00 PM, and then tapering off significantly as evening approaches. By 6:00 PM, the UV Index returns to a safe level of 1, and by 7:00 PM, it settles at 0, signaling the end of peak solar radiation for the day. Remember, during those peak hours, it’s essential to protect your skin!

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	15	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 Olaya

The UV Index experiences consistently high levels throughout the year, peaking in the spring months with January to April recording extreme ratings between 14 and 17. The highest risk for UV exposure occurs during these months, making January through April particularly dangerous for sunburn, with a burn time of only 10 minutes. Although the index slightly decreases in May through December, the UV levels remain significant and fall within the extreme category. Therefore, it is crucial for both visitors and residents to practice sun safety year-round, including wearing protective clothing, using sunscreen with high SPF, and seeking shade during peak hours, especially during the high-risk months of January to April.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Olaya, Colombia

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

The table above highlights how UV exposure in Olaya 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.

Olaya'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 UVI	14	15	17	16	16	14	14	15	14	14	13	12
Olaya	14	15	16	17	16	15	15	14	15	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