Last updated: July 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index in San Francisco, Colombia is essential for safeguarding your skin and maintaining your overall health. With UV levels notably peaking in the late morning and early afternoon—reaching as high as 13—being aware of the UV Index can help you take proactive measures against sunburn and long-term skin damage. Given the city's tropical climate, residents and visitors alike face unique risks of UV exposure, making it crucial to plan outdoor activities accordingly. Protect yourself and enjoy the beautiful sunshine while staying informed!
The UV Index data reveals a dynamic fluctuation throughout the day, peaking at a maximum of 13 around noon. The morning starts off gently, with readings of only 1 at 07:00 and 3 by 08:00, perfect for early risers. However, as the sun ascends, the intensity rises sharply, hitting a critical 10 by 10:00 and reaching its zenith at 12 by 11:00 and 13 by 12:00. The afternoon sees a gradual decline, with values dropping to 9 at 14:00, and then further sliding to 6 by 15:00. As evening approaches, the UV Index dwindles to 3 by 16:00, and finally tails off to 1 by 17:00, nurturing a calmer end to the day. With clear awareness of these fluctuations, individuals can effectively plan their outdoor activities, ensuring protection during the most intense hours.
| Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 08:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 09:00 | 6 | high | 25 min |
| 10:00 | 10 | 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 |
The UV Index in this region remains consistently high throughout the year, peaking during the early months with values reaching a maximum of 16 in March and April. January through May are particularly high-risk months, with all months showcasing an extreme exposure category and a burn time of just 10 minutes. Residents and visitors should take precautions during these months, ensuring to wear protective clothing, sunscreen, and sunglasses to minimize skin damage. From June to November, the UV Index gradually decreases but remains at an extreme level of 12-14, maintaining a burn time of 10 minutes. Therefore, it's crucial to stay vigilant about sun protection year-round, as sun safety should be a priority regardless of the season.
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 Francisco | 13 | 14 | 16 | 16 | 15 | 14 | 13 | 14 | 14 | 14 | 12 | 11 |
| 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 |