Last updated: July 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors of San Mateo, Colombia, where the climate is classified as Cfb, characterized by mild temperatures but significant sun exposure. Awareness of UV levels is essential not just for preventing painful sunburns but also for safeguarding long-term skin health. With midday readings peaking at a striking 16, understanding when to seek shade and apply sunscreen becomes vital, especially given the region's typical UV exposure risks. Stay informed to protect your skin and enjoy the beautiful outdoor activities that San Mateo has to offer!
The UV Index data showcases a dynamic progression throughout the day, starting with a mild UVI of 2 at 7:00 AM. As the sun rises, intensity increases, peaking at an impressive 16 by 12:00 PM. This midday high underscores the importance of sun protection, with the index reaching 15 at 11:00 AM and slightly tapering off to 14 at 1:00 PM. In the afternoon, a noticeable decline occurs, dipping to 11 by 2:00 PM and further dropping to 6 at 3:00 PM. By 4:00 PM, the UVI continues its descent, reaching 3 before winding down to 1 at 5:00 PM, and eventually falling to a safe 0 by 6:00 PM. This data highlights the critical hours for sun exposure, particularly between 10:00 AM and 2:00 PM, encouraging outdoor enthusiasts and sun seekers alike to take necessary precautions during peak sunlight hours.
| Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 08:00 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
| 09:00 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
| 10:00 | 12 | extreme | 10 min |
| 11:00 | 15 | extreme | 10 min |
| 12:00 | 16 | extreme | 10 min |
| 13:00 | 14 | extreme | 10 min |
| 14:00 | 11 | extreme | 10 min |
| 15:00 | 6 | high | 25 min |
| 16:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 17:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 18:00 | 0 | low | 45 min |
| 19:00 | 0 | low | 45 min |
Throughout the year, UV Index levels remain extremely high, particularly from January to May when values peak at 19 in April. The high-risk months for UV exposure are March to May, with March (UV 18) and April (UV 19) representing the highest levels, resulting in a burn time of just 10 minutes. Even in the summer months, the UV Index stays consistent at 16, reinforcing the need for caution. Visitors and residents should ensure they are taking protective measures during these months, such as wearing sunscreen, protective clothing, and sunglasses, and seeking shade, especially when outdoors for extended periods. Stay vigilant even as UV levels decrease in the fall and winter months, as the index is still classified as extreme throughout the year.
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 |
| 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 |
| San Mateo | 15 | 17 | 18 | 19 | 17 | 16 | 16 | 16 | 16 | 15 | 14 | 13 |