Last updated: August 1, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for the residents of Cantagallo, Colombia, as it plays a vital role in protecting skin health and preventing sunburn. With a typical tropical climate that boasts high UV exposure, it's important to be aware of daily fluctuations in UV levels. For instance, during peak hours, such as 12 PM, the UV Index can soar to 13, signaling extreme risk for unprotected skin. By staying informed, you can take necessary precautions to safeguard against the harmful effects of UV radiation, ensuring a healthy and enjoyable experience under the Colombian sun.
The UV Index varies significantly throughout the day, peaking between 12:00 PM and 1:00 PM at a striking 13—a clear signal to take precautions if you're outdoors. Starting the morning with a mild 1 at 7:00 AM, the UV levels rise steadily, reaching 6 by 9:00 AM and climbing to a critical high of 12 by 11:00 AM. After the noon peak, there's a gradual decline, with values falling to 5 at 3:00 PM, and ultimately dropping back to 1 by 5:00 PM and remaining low past sunset at 6:00 PM and 7:00 PM, where the index hits 0. Keep in mind this rhythm of UV exposure, as it underscores the importance of sun protection during the 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 | 5 | moderate | 30 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 consistently remain in the extreme category, peaking at 15 in April. High-risk months for sun exposure are from January to May, where UV indices are at their highest, ensuring a burn time of just 10 minutes. While June through October maintain a stable UV Index of 13, safe sun practices are essential year-round. Residents and visitors are strongly advised to wear protective clothing, use broad-spectrum sunscreen, and seek shade, especially during midday hours, to minimize the risk of skin damage and ensure a safer outdoor experience.
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 |
Cantagallo | 12 | 13 | 14 | 15 | 14 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 11 | 11 |
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 |