Last updated: June 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index in Valdivia, Colombia is essential for safeguarding your skin health and preventing sunburn. With a diverse climate characterized by moderate temperatures and varying cloud cover, Valdivia experiences significant UV exposure, with peak levels reaching a concerning 14 between noon and early afternoon. Knowing the UV levels can empower residents and visitors alike to take proactive measures against harmful rays, ensuring enjoyable outdoor activities without the risk of skin damage. Stay informed, protect your skin, and embrace the beauty of Valdivia while keeping UV awareness at the forefront!
The UV Index for the day displayed a striking increase as the sun climbed higher in the sky. Starting at a gentle 1 by 7:00 AM, it swiftly rose to a moderate 3 by 8:00 AM. As the clock struck 9:00 AM, the intensity shot up to a significant 7, reaching a peak of 14 at 12:00 PM—the optimal time for sun protection. The afternoon saw a gradual decline, with readings of 13 at 1:00 PM and 10 by 2:00 PM. As the sun set, the UV Index dwindled, dropping to 3 at 4:00 PM and finally retreating to a safe 0 by 7:00 PM. This data highlights the importance of midday sun safety, making it essential to reapply sunscreen and seek shade when UV levels are at their highest.
| Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 08:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 09:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 10:00 | 11 | extreme | 10 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 |
Throughout the year, the UV Index consistently indicates extreme exposure levels, emphasizing the need for caution against harmful UV radiation. The high-risk months span from January to May, where UV Index values peak between 13 and 16, making sunburn a significant risk within just 10 minutes of exposure. Although the index slightly decreases during the summer months of June to August to 14, the danger remains, followed by a steady UV Index of 14 from September to October. As temperatures drop in November and December, the UV levels remain at 13 and 12, respectively, but caution should persist due to the ongoing extreme category rating. Residents and visitors are strongly advised to protect themselves with sunscreen, wearing protective clothing, and seeking shade during peak sunshine hours to minimize the risk of skin damage year-round.
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 |
| Valdivia | 13 | 15 | 15 | 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 |