UV Index in Valparaiso, Colombia

Last updated: July 2, 2025

Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors in Valparaíso, Colombia, where the sun’s rays can pose significant health risks. With UV levels peaking during midday—hitting a maximum of 13—awareness of these radiation levels is essential for sunburn prevention and long-term skin health. Valparaíso's Af climate leads to high UV exposure, especially between 10 AM and 2 PM, making it all the more important to monitor the UV Index daily. By staying informed, you can enjoy the beauty of this vibrant coastal city while protecting your skin from potential harm.

Hourly UV Index in Valparaiso

As the sun rises, the UV Index starts off low at 1 by 7:00 AM, gradually climbing to a moderate 3 by 8:00 AM. The intensity peaks at 12:00 PM with a striking 13, signaling a high level of UV exposure. As the day progresses, the index then begins its descent, dropping from 12 at 1:00 PM to 9 by 2:00 PM, before tapering off to 6 at 3:00 PM. The evening brings a soothing decline, returning to a safe 1 by 5:00 PM and settling at 0 by 7:00 PM. For optimal protection, it's best to limit sun exposure during the peak hours of 10 AM to 2 PM when UV levels are at their highest.

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	5	moderate	30 min
10:00	9	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	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 Valparaiso

Throughout the year, the UV Index in the region remains consistently high, with values ranging from 12 to 16, categorized as extreme. The months of March, April, and October exhibit the highest UV readings, peaking at 16, while January and December show slightly lower levels at 13 and 12, respectively. Notably, the high-risk months for UV exposure are February, March, and April, where the burn time is as quick as 10 minutes. Visitors and residents should take precautionary measures during these peak months, such as wearing protective clothing, applying broad-spectrum sunscreen, and seeking shade to minimize the risk of skin damage. Staying vigilant against UV exposure is crucial year-round due to the extreme nature of the index.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Valparaiso, Colombia

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

The table above highlights how UV exposure in Valparaiso 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.

Valparaiso'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
Valparaiso	13	14	16	16	14	13	13	14	14	15	14	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