UV Index in San Sebastian, Colombia

Last updated: May 3, 2025

In San Sebastian, Colombia, understanding the UV Index is crucial for protecting your skin and overall health. High UV levels can lead to sunburn and long-term skin damage, making it essential to stay informed about sun exposure, especially during peak hours. The climate here, categorized as Cfb, offers a delightful mix of warmth and humidity, but it also means that residents and visitors face heightened UV risks, particularly between 10 AM and 2 PM when the UV Index can soar to a staggering 16. By being aware of these levels, you can enjoy the beautiful outdoors while safeguarding your skin against harmful radiation.

Hourly UV Index in San Sebastian

The UV Index over the course of the day shows a dramatic rise and fall, peaking sharply in the early afternoon hours. Starting at a mere 1 at 07:00, it climbs steadily, reaching a moderate 3 by 08:00. As the sun ascends, the index skyrockets, hitting a staggering 16 by 12:00, marking the sun’s relentless intensity. The highest point occurs at 11:00, with a blistering 15, before descending to 11 at 14:00 as the afternoon progresses. By 15:00, there's a noticeable decline to 7, and the evening brings a soothing drop, with the index falling back to 1 by 17:00 and finally resting at 0 after 19:00. This data underscores the importance of sun safety during peak hours, especially between 10:00 and 14:00.

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	11	extreme	10 min
11:00	15	extreme	10 min
12:00	16	extreme	10 min
13:00	15	extreme	10 min
14:00	11	extreme	10 min
15:00	7	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 San Sebastian

Throughout the year, the UV Index fluctuates, generally remaining in the extreme exposure category, with notably high levels from January to May and continuing into early October. The highest UV indices occur in March and April, reaching 18, which signifies an urgent need for protective measures. Residents and visitors should particularly be cautious from January through May and again in October, where even brief exposure can lead to sunburn within just 10 minutes. It is crucial for everyone to adopt preventive strategies during these high-risk months, such as using sunscreen, wearing protective clothing, and seeking shade, especially during peak sunlight hours.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for San Sebastian, Colombia

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

The table above highlights how UV exposure in San Sebastian 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.

San Sebastian'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
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 Sebastian	16	17	18	18	16	14	15	15	15	16	15	13