UV Index in Riohacha, Colombia

Last updated: July 2, 2025

Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors in Riohacha, Colombia, where the tropical climate poses unique risks for sun exposure. With UV levels reaching a peak of 13 at noon, awareness of UV radiation is essential for preventing sunburn and promoting skin health. Regularly checking the UV Index helps everyone gauge when to seek shade, apply sunscreen, or cover up to protect against harmful effects. Given Riohacha's warm and sunny weather, being informed about UV levels is not just beneficial—it's vital for enjoying the beautiful outdoors safely.

Hourly UV Index in Riohacha

As the sun rises, the UV Index begins subtly, peaking at 1 by 7:00 AM. By 9:00 AM, it climbs to a moderate level of 6, increasing to a striking 10 at 10:00 AM. At 11:00 AM, the intensity reaches its zenith with a sharp 12, and by 12:00 PM, it hits a scorching 13. The afternoon witnesses a gradual decline, with UV levels dropping to 12 by 1:00 PM, followed by a swift descent to 9 at 2:00 PM and further down to 5 by 3:00 PM. As the day winds down, UV exposure diminishes, falling to 3 at 4:00 PM, and finally settling back to 1 by 5:00 PM. The UV index ends the day at 0 by 7:00 PM, signaling a safe retreat from sun exposure. This hourly fluctuation highlights the importance of sun safety, especially during peak hours when UV radiation is at its most intense.

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	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	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 Riohacha

The UV Index experiences significant fluctuations throughout the year, with the highest values occurring from March to April, where it peaks at 15, indicating an extreme exposure category and a burn time of just 10 minutes. February also records a high of 12, while November and December see a decrease to a very high rating of 10, extending burn time to 15 minutes. Visitors and residents are advised to exercise extreme caution from March to April, as well as in February, and to take protective measures such as wearing sunscreen, hats, and protective clothing during these high-risk months. For the remainder of the year, while UV exposure is slightly lower, maintaining sun safety practices is still highly recommended.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Riohacha, Colombia

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

The table above highlights how UV exposure in Riohacha 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.

Riohacha'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
Riohacha	11	12	14	15	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