Last updated: July 2, 2025
In Gacheta, Colombia, understanding the UV Index is crucial for maintaining optimal skin health and preventing sunburn, particularly in a region characterized by its Cfb climate. With UV levels peaking at a staggering 15 around noon, locals and visitors alike must stay vigilant to protect themselves from harmful ultraviolet radiation. By being aware of the daily UV fluctuations—ranging from a low of 1 in the early morning to dangerous levels of 14 and 15 during midday—residents can make informed decisions about sun exposure, ensuring that outdoor activities remain safe and enjoyable.
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, UV levels remain alarmingly high, with the UV Index reaching its peak in March and April at an extreme level of 18. The high-risk months are consistent from January to May, where the index remains between 15 and 18, indicating an urgent need for protection against UV exposure. Visitors and residents are strongly advised to take precautions, such as wearing protective clothing, applying high-SPF sunscreen, and seeking shade whenever possible, especially during the peak hours of sun exposure, which can lead to a burn in just 10 minutes. It is crucial to stay informed as UV levels are high year-round, remaining between 13 and 15 from November to February, and to prioritize skin safety during outdoor activities.
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 |
Gacheta | 15 | 16 | 18 | 18 | 16 | 15 | 15 | 15 | 15 | 15 | 13 | 13 |
Bogota UVI | 15 | 16 | 18 | 18 | 17 | 15 | 15 | 16 | 15 | 15 | 14 | 13 |