Last updated: June 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors in Cienaga, Colombia, where the tropical climate brings both vibrant sun and increased UV exposure. As the UV Index can peak at a striking 13 during midday, knowing these levels is essential for preventing sunburn and protecting skin health. Awareness of UV risks can help individuals take proactive measures, especially given Cienaga's year-round warm temperatures that amplify sun exposure. Being informed allows you to enjoy the outdoors safely while minimizing the potential for long-term skin damage.
As the sun rises, the UV Index begins its climb, peaking dramatically around 12:00 PM with a high of 13, making midday the most critical time for sun exposure. Starting from a mild 1 at 07:00, the index steadily rises, reaching 10 by 10:00 AM and hitting 12 by 11:00 AM, indicating the need for protective measures. The intensity starts to taper off in the afternoon, with readings of 9 at 2:00 PM and 6 by 3:00 PM, before descending to 1 by 5:00 PM and dropping to 0 at 7:00 PM. It's clear that during these hours, especially between 10:00 AM and 2:00 PM, caution is key for those venturing outdoors.
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 | 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 | 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 displays significant seasonal fluctuations, peaking from February to April with values reaching as high as 15 in April, indicating an extreme exposure category with a burn time of just 10 minutes. The highest-risk months for UV exposure are March and April, where precautions are especially crucial. Throughout the year, residents and visitors should remain vigilant, particularly during these months, and take appropriate measures such as wearing sunscreen, protective clothing, and seeking shade during peak hours. Even during December and November, when the UV Index is slightly lower at 11 and 10, respectively, the risk of skin damage remains significant, emphasizing the need for continued sun safety practices.
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 |
Cienaga | 11 | 12 | 14 | 15 | 14 | 13 | 13 | 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 |
Bogota UVI | 15 | 16 | 18 | 18 | 17 | 15 | 15 | 16 | 15 | 15 | 14 | 13 |