UV Index in Santa Barbara, Colombia

Last updated: July 2, 2025

In Santa Barbara, Colombia, understanding the UV Index is crucial for protecting your skin and overall health under the tropical sun. With UV levels peaking as high as 14 during midday, awareness of these fluctuating levels can help prevent painful sunburns and long-term skin damage. The region's Af climate means you can expect consistent exposure to intense sunlight throughout the year, particularly from 10 AM to 2 PM. By staying informed about the UV Index, you can enjoy the great outdoors while safeguarding your skin from harmful rays.

Hourly UV Index in Santa Barbara

As the sun rises, the UV Index begins its ascent, starting at a mild 1 at 07:00. By 08:00, it climbs to 3, indicating a cautious need for sun protection. The real intensity kicks in by 09:00, reaching 6, and peaks at a striking 14 at 12:00—the hour when the sun is at its zenith. With readings of 13 still prevalent from 11:00 to 13:00, it’s a vital time to stay protected! As afternoon settles in, the UV levels gradually taper off; they dip to 6 by 15:00 and descend further to 3 at 16:00. By evening, the risk diminishes significantly with a return to 1 at 17:00, rounding off the day as twilight approaches with a 0 reading by 19:00. Stay safe in the sun!

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	3	moderate	30 min
09:00	6	high	25 min
10:00	10	very high	15 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

Monthly UV Index Trends in Santa Barbara

Across the year, the UV Index remains extremely high, with only slight variations, peaking at 16 in March and April. This consistent exposure means that January through May, as well as September through November, remain particularly high-risk months for sunburn, with a burn time as short as 10 minutes regardless of the month. Visitors and residents should take precautionary measures, such as wearing broad-spectrum sunscreen, protective clothing, and wide-brimmed hats when outdoors, especially during peak sun hours. Being mindful of UV exposure is essential for skin health all year round.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Santa Barbara, Colombia

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

The table above highlights how UV exposure in Santa Barbara 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.

Santa Barbara'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
Santa Barbara	13	15	16	16	15	14	14	14	14	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