UV Index in Apia, Colombia

Last updated: May 3, 2025

Understanding the UV Index in Apia, Colombia is essential for protecting your skin and maintaining overall health in this vibrant town nestled in a tropical climate. With UV levels peaking at a staggering 15 during midday hours, awareness of these values is crucial for sunburn prevention and long-term skin care. Apia's warm and sunny environment presents significant UV exposure risks, especially for those who spend time outdoors. By keeping track of the UV Index, you can take proactive measures to safeguard your skin and enjoy the beautiful Colombian sunshine safely.

Hourly UV Index in Apia

The UV Index data reveals a striking pattern throughout the day. Morning rays begin gently at 07:00 with a UV Index of 1, but by 08:00, it surges to 4. As the sun climbs, exposure becomes increasingly intense, peaking at 12:00 with a critical UV Index of 15—a clear warning to seek shade. The highest reading occurs at 11:00, registering an intense 14, before gradually tapering off to 10 by 14:00. Later in the afternoon, the index declines further, dropping to 6 at 15:00, and finishing the day with a return to safer levels of 1 by 17:00 and 18:00, finally settling at 0 by 19:00. It's a day that reminds us of the importance of sun safety—especially during those midday 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	1	low	45 min
08:00	4	moderate	30 min
09:00	7	high	25 min
10:00	11	extreme	10 min
11:00	14	extreme	10 min
12:00	15	extreme	10 min
13:00	14	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 Apia

The UV Index exhibits extreme levels year-round, with particularly high readings from January to May, peaking at 16 in March and April. Throughout the summer months, the index remains consistently high at 14, ensuring a persistent risk of UV exposure. November and December see a slight decrease to 13 and 12, respectively, but the exposure remains in the extreme category. Visitors and residents are strongly advised to take precautions during all months to avoid sunburn, including seeking shade, wearing protective clothing, and applying broad-spectrum sunscreen regularly, as even brief exposure can lead to skin damage.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Apia, Colombia

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

The table above highlights how UV exposure in Apia 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.

Apia'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
Apia	14	15	16	16	15	14	14	14	14	14	13	12
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