Last updated: June 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents of Sabanalarga, Colombia, where the tropical climate can lead to significant sun exposure year-round. As UV levels can reach a maximum of 15 around midday, being informed about these levels is essential for preventing sunburn and safeguarding skin health. With typical exposure risks peaking between 10:00 AM and 2:00 PM, awareness of the UV Index helps Sabanalarga's community take proactive measures against harmful sun rays, ensuring fun in the sun remains safe and enjoyable. So, whether you're planning a midday outing or simply enjoying the outdoors, keep a close eye on the UV Index to protect your skin against damage.
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!
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 |
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.
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 |
Medellin UVI | 14 | 15 | 17 | 16 | 16 | 14 | 14 | 15 | 14 | 14 | 13 | 12 |
Sabanalarga | 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 |