Last updated: May 3, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors of Santa Catalina, Colombia, where the tropical climate exposes us to varying levels of ultraviolet radiation throughout the day. Monitoring these UV levels is essential for preventing sunburn and promoting long-term skin health, especially during peak hours when the UV Index skyrockets to 13. With Santa Catalina's Aw climate zone, characterized by warm temperatures and plenty of sunshine, being aware of UV risks can help you enjoy the outdoors while safeguarding your skin from harmful effects. Stay informed and protect yourself!
The UV Index for the day demonstrates a significant rise and fall in intensity, peaking sharply at 11:00 AM and 12:00 PM with a staggering 13. Early in the morning, from 7:00 AM to 8:00 AM, the index starts low at 1, gradually increasing to 3 by 8:00 AM. As the sun climbs higher, a rapid escalation occurs, reaching 10 by 10:00 AM and hitting its maximum at noon. After this peak, the index begins to decline, dropping steadily to 9 at 2:00 PM, and later retreating to 1 by 5:00 PM. By 7:00 PM, the UV Index has faded to 0, reminding us of the crucial midday hours to protect our skin from UV exposure.
| 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 | 13 | 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 | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Santa Catalina | 11 | 12 | 14 | 14 | 13 | 13 | 12 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 11 | 10 |
| 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 |
| 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 |