UV Index in Santiago, Colombia

Last updated: June 2, 2025

Understanding the UV Index in Santiago, Colombia is crucial for safeguarding your skin health under the city’s bright sun. With peak UV levels often soaring to 15 during midday, this vibrant metropolitan area presents significant risks for sunburn and long-term skin damage. Santiago’s Cfb climate combines mild temperatures with high solar radiation, making awareness of UV levels essential for enjoying outdoor activities safely. By staying informed about the UV Index, you can take proactive steps to protect yourself from harmful effects while soaking up the sun in this beautiful locale.

Hourly UV Index in Santiago

The UV Index throughout the day exhibits a striking pattern, starting with a mild 2 at 07:00 and steadily climbing to a peak of 15 by 12:00. From 08:00 onward, sun-seekers should be cautious as the index escalates; it hits 14 at 11:00 and a maximum of 12 at 10:00. As the afternoon approaches, the intensity begins to taper off, dropping to 10 by 14:00 and further decreasing to 6 at 15:00. The latter hours see a rapid decline, with the index falling to 1 by 17:00 and remaining there until it finally drops to 0 at 19:00. Overall, this data indicates the midday sun is particularly potent, urging everyone to take protective measures during 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	8	very high	15 min
10:00	12	extreme	10 min
11:00	14	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 Santiago

The UV Index demonstrates exceptionally high levels throughout the year, consistently categorized as extreme from January to November, with values peaking at 17 in April. The highest risk months for UV exposure are March (16) and April (17), where a burn can occur in just 10 minutes of unprotected exposure. Even in later months like October, the UV Index remains considerable at 15. Visitors and residents are strongly advised to take protective measures during these high-risk months, such as wearing UV-blocking clothing, applying broad-spectrum sunscreen frequently, and seeking shade whenever possible to minimize the risk of skin damage.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Santiago, Colombia

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

The table above highlights how UV exposure in Santiago 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.

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