Last updated: May 3, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for the residents of San Martin, Colombia, where the tropical climate can lead to significant sun exposure. With levels soaring as high as 14 during midday, awareness of UV intensity is key to preventing sunburn and protecting overall skin health. High UV levels can increase the risk of long-term skin damage, making it essential to adapt sun safety measures based on daily UV readings. In this vibrant town, where outdoor activities are a part of everyday life, staying informed about UV exposure risks is essential for enjoying the sunshine safely and healthily.
At 07:00, the UV Index begins at a mild 2, making it safe for outdoor activities. However, as the day progresses, the intensity of the sun ramps up rapidly, reaching a moderate 4 by 08:00. The UV Index peaks at an intense 14 around 11:00 and 12:00, presenting a significant risk of harm to unprotected skin. As the afternoon rolls in, values gradually dip, with 13 at 13:00 and then sliding down to 9 by 14:00. By 15:00, the index drops to 6, signaling a safer environment for outdoor fun. As the day winds down, the UV levels fall to 2 at 16:00, and taper off to 1 by 17:00, completely disappearing by 18:00. Overall, it's essential to manage sun exposure wisely, especially during the peak hours when UV radiation poses the highest threat.
Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
---|---|---|---|
07:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
08:00 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
09:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
10:00 | 11 | extreme | 10 min |
11:00 | 14 | extreme | 10 min |
12:00 | 14 | extreme | 10 min |
13:00 | 13 | extreme | 10 min |
14:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
15:00 | 6 | high | 25 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 |
The UV Index exhibits extreme levels from January through May, peaking at 15 in April and remaining consistently high until October. During these months, a burn time of just 10 minutes is sufficient for unprotected skin, highlighting the high-risk months for sun exposure primarily from March to April. Visitors and residents are strongly advised to take precautions, such as wearing protective clothing, applying broad-spectrum sunscreen, and seeking shade during peak sun hours. As the year progresses, although the UV Index slightly decreases, it remains a consideration; even in December, the index is rated as very high with a notable burn time of 15 minutes. Prioritizing sun safety year-round is essential.
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 |
San Martin | 12 | 13 | 14 | 15 | 14 | 13 | 13 | 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 |