UV Index in Manizales, Colombia

Last updated: June 2, 2025

Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors in Manizales, Colombia, a city nestled in the heart of the Andes with a climate that can surprise you with its intensity. The UV levels here can soar during peak hours, particularly between 11 AM and 1 PM, where values can reach a staggering 14 on the scale. This highlights the necessity of being aware of sun exposure to prevent sunburn and protect your long-term skin health. With the unique climatic conditions of Manizales, staying informed about the UV Index is essential to enjoy the outdoors safely while safeguarding against the risks of high UV radiation.

Hourly UV Index in Manizales

Experience the day's UV Index journey, starting at a gentle 1 at 7:00 AM, gradually climbing to a peak of 14 by noon. As the sun reaches its zenith, the UV intensity intensifies, with maximum levels recorded at 11:00 AM and 12:00 PM. The UV Index begins to taper off after 1:00 PM, dropping to 10 by 2:00 PM. As afternoon turns to evening, the levels decrease further, settling back to a safe 1 by 5:00 PM. With a final dip to 0 by 7:00 PM, the day's UV exposure concludes, reminding us of the sun's powerful influence in the midday hours. Stay protected!

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	13	extreme	10 min
12:00	14	extreme	10 min
13:00	13	extreme	10 min
14:00	10	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

Monthly UV Index Trends in Manizales

The UV Index exhibits extreme levels year-round, with particularly high readings from January to May, peaking at 16 in March and April. Throughout the summer months, the index remains consistently high at 14, ensuring a persistent risk of UV exposure. November and December see a slight decrease to 13 and 12, respectively, but the exposure remains in the extreme category. Visitors and residents are strongly advised to take precautions during all months to avoid sunburn, including seeking shade, wearing protective clothing, and applying broad-spectrum sunscreen regularly, as even brief exposure can lead to skin damage.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Manizales, Colombia

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

The table above highlights how UV exposure in Manizales 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.

Manizales'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
Manizales	14	15	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