UV Index in Providencia, Colombia

Last updated: August 1, 2025

Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors in Providencia, Colombia, where sun exposure can be significantly high. The UV levels, which peak around midday with values soaring to 15, can intensify the risk of sunburn and long-term skin issues. By staying informed about these levels, individuals can take necessary precautions to protect their skin health. Providencia's unique climate, characterized as Cfb, tends to offer a mix of tropical warmth and coastal breezes, but this doesn't diminish the potential for harmful UV radiation. Embracing awareness of the UV Index is key to enjoying the island's beautiful outdoors safely.

Hourly UV Index in Providencia

The UV Index today presents a dramatic rise from dawn to midday, reaching its peak at 12:00 PM with a striking 15. As the sun climbs in the sky, the intensity of UV radiation escalates quickly; starting at a low 1 at 7:00 AM, it surges to 10 by 10:00 AM and hits its highest point with 13 at 11:00 AM. A slight decline begins in the early afternoon, as the UV Index drops to 11 at 2:00 PM, before tapering off to 4 by 4:00 PM. As the day wanes, levels diminish further to 1 by 5:00 PM, settling at 0 by 7:00 PM. This pattern highlights the importance of sun safety during peak hours, particularly between 11:00 AM and 2:00 PM, when protective measures are most crucial.

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	14	extreme	10 min
12:00	15	extreme	10 min
13:00	14	extreme	10 min
14:00	11	extreme	10 min
15:00	7	high	25 min
16:00	4	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 Providencia

The UV Index data indicates consistently extreme exposure levels throughout the year, with high-risk months occurring from January to April and October. During these months, the UV Index peaks at 17 or higher, meaning unprotected skin can burn in as little as 10 minutes. Visitors and residents are strongly advised to take precautions, including wearing sunscreen with high SPF, protective clothing, and sunglasses, and seeking shade during peak sunlight hours. Even in lower UV months from May to September, the index remains high, hovering between 14 and 16, necessitating ongoing sun safety practices. As winter approaches in November and December, although the UV Index decreases, it is still advisable to remain vigilant.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Providencia, Colombia

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

The table above highlights how UV exposure in Providencia 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.

Providencia'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
Bogota UVI	15	16	18	18	17	15	15	16	15	15	14	13
Providencia	16	17	18	18	16	14	15	15	16	17	14	13