UV Index in Maicao, Colombia

Last updated: July 2, 2025

Understanding the UV Index in Maicao, Colombia is crucial for safeguarding your skin against the harmful effects of ultraviolet radiation. With the city's predominantly tropical climate, residents and visitors alike are regularly exposed to varying levels of UV radiation, which can often lead to sunburn and increase the risk of skin cancer. For instance, during peak hours, such as from 10 AM to 1 PM, the UV Index can reach dangerously high levels, peaking at 13—a stark reminder of the need for sun protection. By keeping an eye on the UV Index, you can better plan your outdoor activities and protect your skin, ensuring a healthy and enjoyable experience in the sun.

Hourly UV Index in Maicao

As the sun rises, the UV Index creeps up from a low of 2 at 07:00. By 09:00, it reaches a moderate 7, signaling that sun protection is becoming essential. The peak intensity occurs at 12:00, when the UV Index soars to 13, a reminder of the midday sun's strength. From 11:00 to 13:00, it remains elevated, hitting a maximum of 12 before it gradually declines to 9 by 14:00. The late afternoon sees a noticeable drop, as the UV levels fall to 3 by 16:00. As the day winds down, the index drops to 1 by 17:00, then fades to 0 by 19:00, marking the end of a sun-drenched day. Remember to stay protected during those peak hours!

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	2	low	45 min
08:00	4	moderate	30 min
09:00	7	high	25 min
10:00	10	very high	15 min
11:00	12	extreme	10 min
12:00	13	extreme	10 min
13:00	11	extreme	10 min
14:00	9	very high	15 min
15:00	5	moderate	30 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 Maicao

The UV index exhibits extreme levels from January through September, with values peaking at 14 in March and April, resulting in a critical burn time of just 10 minutes across these months. High-risk months for UV exposure include March, April, and May, when the UV index remains notably elevated. Even in the late fall and winter months of November and December, the UV index remains very high at 10, allowing for a burn time of 15 minutes. Therefore, visitors and residents are strongly advised to incorporate sun protection measures, such as wearing sunscreen, hats, and protective clothing, and to limit sun exposure during peak hours, especially in the spring and summer months when UV intensity is at its highest.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Maicao, Colombia

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

The table above highlights how UV exposure in Maicao 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.

Maicao'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
Maicao	11	12	14	14	13	13	13	13	13	13	10	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