UV Index in Santiago, Colombia

Last updated: August 1, 2025

Understanding the UV Index in Santiago, Colombia is crucial for protecting your skin and overall health from harmful sun exposure. As a city located in a climate zone characterized by mild temperatures and elevated UV levels, being aware of the daily UV Index can help residents and visitors alike prevent sunburn and long-term skin damage. During peak hours, especially between 10:00 AM and 2:00 PM, UV levels can soar as high as 14, emphasizing the importance of sun safety precautions. Taking the right measures to shield yourself from the sun's intense rays not only ensures immediate comfort but also contributes significantly to your skin's health in the long run.

Hourly UV Index in Santiago

As the sun rises, the UV Index starts at a moderate level of 2 at 7 AM, gradually increasing to a peak of 14 by noon. The intensity is most striking at 11 AM and 12 PM, where exposure becomes critical. After this time, the index begins a gradual decline, dropping to 10 at 2 PM and continuing downwards to a mere 1 by 5 PM. Sun-seekers and outdoor enthusiasts should be especially cautious from 9 AM to 1 PM when the UV levels are at their highest, reaching their zenith with an extreme 11 at 10 AM. Remember to protect your skin under this midday sun!

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	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