UV Index in Santiago, Colombia

Last updated: July 2, 2025

Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors of Santiago, Colombia, where the sun's rays can be particularly intense throughout the year. As a city situated at a high altitude with a Cfb climate, Santiago experiences significant UV exposure, especially between 10 AM and 2 PM when levels can soar to 15—indicative of extreme risk. Awareness of these levels is essential for preventing sunburn and protecting long-term skin health. By keeping an eye on the UV Index, you can enjoy the vibrant outdoor lifestyle that Santiago has to offer while minimizing the risk of harmful UV radiation.

Hourly UV Index in Santiago

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.
TimeUVICategoryTime to Burn
07:001low45 min
08:003moderate30 min
09:006high25 min
10:0010very high15 min
11:0013extreme10 min
12:0015extreme10 min
13:0014extreme10 min
14:0011extreme10 min
15:007high25 min
16:004moderate30 min
17:001low45 min
18:001low45 min
19:000low45 min

Monthly UV Index Trends in Santiago

The UV Index data indicates extreme levels of ultraviolet radiation throughout the year, with particularly high values in March (19) and April (19). Residents and visitors should be especially cautious during these months, as they coincide with the highest risk for skin damage and sunburn, requiring only 10 minutes of sun exposure to receive harmful effects. January through May also reflect high risk with UV Index values consistently above 17, while October through December demonstrate slightly reduced values, yet still pose a risk. It’s advisable to use sunscreen, wear protective clothing, and limit sun exposure during peak hours from January through May and again in the fall, ensuring skin health is prioritized year-round.

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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec171719191614151516171514
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.
 JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Barranquilla UVI111214141312131313131110
Cartagena UVI111113151313121313131110
Medellin UVI141517161614141514141312
Cali UVI151617171514141415141312
Bogota UVI151618181715151615151413
Santiago171719191714151516171513