UV Index in Santa Maria, Colombia

Last updated: June 2, 2025

Understanding the UV Index is vital for residents and visitors in Santa Maria, Colombia, where the potent sun can pose significant risks to skin health. With UV levels peaking at 14 during midday, awareness of these values helps in preventing sunburn and long-term skin damage. Given the region's tropical climate characterized by high solar exposure, knowing when to seek shade and apply sunscreen becomes essential. Stay informed about the UV Index to protect your skin and enjoy the beautiful sunny days that Santa Maria has to offer!

Hourly UV Index in Santa Maria

As the sun rises, the UV Index begins to climb steadily. At 07:00, it starts at a modest 1, indicating low levels of UV radiation. By 08:00, it jumps to 4, inching closer to moderate levels. The intensity peaks spectacularly at 12:00, reaching 14, signaling a critical need for sun protection. As the afternoon progresses, the UV Index gradually decreases: 12:00 and 13:00 remain high at 14 and 12, respectively, before dipping to 9 at 14:00. By late afternoon, the risk recedes to 5 at 15:00 and continues to decline, falling to 1 by 17:00 and finally to a safe 0 by 18:00. This data highlights the importance of being sun-smart during the midday peak hours!

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	4	moderate	30 min
09:00	7	high	25 min
10:00	11	extreme	10 min
11:00	13	extreme	10 min
12:00	14	extreme	10 min
13:00	12	extreme	10 min
14:00	9	very high	15 min
15:00	5	moderate	30 min
16:00	2	low	45 min
17:00	1	low	45 min
18:00	0	low	45 min
19:00	0	low	45 min

Monthly UV Index Trends in Santa Maria

The UV Index remains consistently high throughout the year, with extreme levels present from January to May and a slight decrease in the following months. March sees the peak UV Index of 16, while other months maintain readings between 12 and 14. Notably, the high-risk months for sun exposure are from January to May, where the burn time is just 10 minutes. Visitors and residents are strongly advised to take precautions during these months by wearing protective clothing, using broad-spectrum sunscreen, and seeking shade during peak sunlight hours to minimize the risk of harmful UV exposure.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Santa Maria, Colombia

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

The table above highlights how UV exposure in Santa Maria 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.

Santa Maria'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
Santa Maria	14	14	16	16	15	14	14	14	14	14	13	12
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