UV Index in Colombia, Colombia

Last updated: July 2, 2025

Awareness of the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors in Colombia, where the sun's intensity can pose significant risks to skin health. Understanding UV levels helps in preventing sunburns and long-term skin damage, making it essential for everyone to monitor these fluctuations. Colombia's tropical climate, characterized by high UV exposure, means that the sun can be particularly harsh during peak hours—especially between 10 AM and 2 PM, when the UV Index can reach a staggering 15. By staying informed about UV levels, you can enjoy the vibrant Colombian outdoors while protecting yourself from harmful rays.

Hourly UV Index in Colombia

The UV Index rises dramatically as the day progresses, peaking at 15 around noon. From a gentle 1 at 07:00, sun-seekers experience increasing intensity, reaching 10 by 10:00 and soaring to its maximum at 12:00. The afternoon sees a gradual decline, dropping back to 6 by 15:00, then tapering off to 3 at 16:00, and returning to a safe 1 by 17:00. As the sun sets, the index drops to 0 by 19:00, signaling the end of peak sun exposure for the day. Be sure to take precautions and seek shade during those high UV hours, especially when the index hits 13 or above!

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	6	high	25 min
10:00	10	very high	15 min
11:00	13	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

Monthly UV Index Trends in Colombia

Throughout the year, UV Index levels remain alarmingly high, consistently categorized as extreme, with burn times of just 10 minutes across all months. The highest UV Index occurs in March, reaching 17, followed closely by April at 17 and February at 15. Thus, March and April are particularly high-risk months for sun exposure. It's crucial for visitors and residents to take preventive measures during these months, such as wearing sunscreen, protective clothing, and seeking shade, especially between 10 AM and 4 PM when the sun’s rays are strongest. Consistent vigilance is essential year-round to protect against harmful UV radiation.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Colombia, Colombia

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

The table above highlights how UV exposure in Colombia 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.

Colombia'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
Colombia	14	15	17	17	16	14	15	15	14	15	14	12
Bogota UVI	15	16	18	18	17	15	15	16	15	15	14	13