Last updated: August 1, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors of Puerto Colombia, Colombia, a region known for its tropical climate and abundant sunshine. With UV levels peaking at a striking 12 during midday, being aware of these levels is essential for preventing sunburn and maintaining skin health. The intense sun exposure in Puerto Colombia underscores the importance of taking protective measures, particularly from 10 AM to 2 PM, when UV radiation can be most harmful. Stay informed and protect your skin as you enjoy this beautiful coastal paradise!
Starting the day at a gentle UV Index of 1 at 7:00 AM, the sun gradually intensifies, climbing to a moderate 3 by 8:00 AM. As the hours pass, the UV Index surges to reach its peak at 12 by noon, indicating a high risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure. The intensity holds firm at 12 through 1:00 PM, before beginning to taper off in the afternoon. By 3:00 PM, the index decreases to 6, and continues its descent, returning to a safe 1 by 5:00 PM. As evening approaches, the UV Index gently falls to 0 by 7:00 PM, signaling a day that emphasized the importance of sun safety during those peak hours. Whether you're spending time outdoors or just taking a stroll, be sure to protect your skin during those critical midday hours!
| 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 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 11:00 | 12 | extreme | 10 min |
| 12:00 | 13 | extreme | 10 min |
| 13:00 | 12 | extreme | 10 min |
| 14:00 | 9 | 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, UV Index levels exhibit a pattern of extreme intensity, with values peaking at 14 in March and April. The high-risk months for UV exposure are clearly identified from February to October, where the UV Index consistently remains between 11 and 14, making outdoor activities particularly hazardous. During this period, the recommended burn time is as little as 10 minutes for lighter skin tones, emphasizing the need for caution. As a reminder for both visitors and residents, it is crucial to practice sun safety measures such as wearing sunscreen, protective clothing, and hats, and seeking shade, particularly during peak sunlight hours to minimize the risk of skin damage. In contrast, December sees a slight decrease in UV exposure, though care should still be taken, as burn time increases to 15 minutes.
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 |
| Puerto Colombia | 11 | 12 | 14 | 14 | 13 | 13 | 12 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 11 | 10 |
| 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 |