UV Index in San Fernando, Colombia

Last updated: June 2, 2025

In San Fernando, Colombia, understanding the UV Index is crucial for protecting your skin from harmful ultraviolet rays. With a typically warm climate, residents and visitors face the threat of sunburn and long-term skin damage, especially during peak UV exposure hours around midday. The UV Index can soar as high as 13, indicating a very high risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure. By staying informed about UV levels, you can take proactive steps to safeguard your skin health and enjoy the sunny days with confidence.

Hourly UV Index in San Fernando

The UV Index data reveals a dynamic day of sun exposure. Starting at 1 at 07:00, the intensity quickly escalates as the sun rises, peaking at an intense 13 by 12:00. From 10:00 to 12:00, levels reach their highest, with 10 at 10:00 and a scorching 12 at 11:00. As the afternoon progresses, readings decline, dropping sharply to 5 by 15:00, before tapering off to 1 at 17:00 and below. This daily rhythm underscores the importance of sun safety, especially during the mid-day peak when UV levels can pose significant risks. Remember to seek shade or apply sunscreen when the index climbs!

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	7	high	25 min
10:00	10	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

Monthly UV Index Trends in San Fernando

Throughout the year, UV Index levels remain notably high, particularly during the peak months from March to May, where the index reaches an extreme level of 15 in April, classified as high-risk for sun exposure, and a burn time of just 10 minutes. Residents and visitors should be especially vigilant during these months, as consistent exposure can lead to severe skin damage. The summer months (June to August) also maintain high UV levels, though they slightly decrease, averaging 12 to 13 on the UV Index. Even in the transition to fall, from September to November, the levels stay consistently high. Only in December does the UV Index drop to 10 (very high), allowing for a marginally longer burn time of 15 minutes. Therefore, it is crucial for everyone to use effective sun protection measures—including sunscreen, protective clothing, and shade—year-round to minimize the risks of UV-related health issues.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for San Fernando, Colombia

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

The table above highlights how UV exposure in San Fernando 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.

San Fernando'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
San Fernando	11	12	13	15	14	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