Last updated: June 2, 2025
In Cogua, Colombia, awareness of the UV Index is crucial for maintaining skin health and preventing sunburn. With a climate classified as Cfb, residents and visitors alike often underestimate the sun’s intensity, especially during peak hours when the UV levels can soar to a dangerous 15 around noon. Understanding these UV levels is essential not only for safeguarding against immediate risks like sunburn but also for long-term skin protection. With UV Index readings fluctuating significantly throughout the day, being informed allows you to enjoy the beautiful Colombian outdoors while staying safe in the sun.
As the sun rises on a new day, the UV Index begins at a modest 1 at 7:00 AM, gradually climbing to reach its peak of 15 by 12:00 PM. The hours between 9:00 AM and 1:00 PM showcase the sun's intensity, highlighted by a significant spike to 11 at 10:00 AM and 14 at 11:00 AM. However, by the afternoon, the radiation starts to wane, dropping to 6 at 3:00 PM, and then tapering off significantly as evening approaches. By 6:00 PM, the UV Index returns to a safe level of 1, and by 7:00 PM, it settles at 0, signaling the end of peak solar radiation for the day. Remember, during those peak hours, it’s essential to protect your skin!
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 | 14 | extreme | 10 min |
12:00 | 15 | 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 |
Throughout the year, the UV Index remains at extremely high levels, peaking from February to April with values reaching up to 17. High-risk months for UV exposure are therefore concentrated in the early part of the year, particularly March and April, when visitors and residents should take extra precautions to protect their skin. With a burn time consistently clocked at just 10 minutes during these months, it is crucial to practice sun safety by wearing protective clothing, applying broad-spectrum sunscreen, and seeking shade whenever possible. As UV levels remain elevated consistently, it is advisable for everyone to remain vigilant year-round to mitigate long-term health risks associated with excessive sun exposure.
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 |
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 |
Cogua | 14 | 16 | 17 | 17 | 16 | 15 | 15 | 15 | 15 | 15 | 13 | 13 |
Bogota UVI | 15 | 16 | 18 | 18 | 17 | 15 | 15 | 16 | 15 | 15 | 14 | 13 |