UV Index in La Merced, Colombia

Last updated: May 3, 2025

Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors in La Merced, Colombia, where the sun shines brightly in its tropical climate. With UV levels peaking at a staggering 15 during midday hours, being aware of these fluctuations is essential for preventing sunburn and promoting skin health. As you explore this vibrant town, knowing when to seek shade or apply sunscreen can help reduce your risk of harmful UV exposure, ensuring that your time outdoors is both enjoyable and safe.

Hourly UV Index in La Merced

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 La Merced

Across the year, the UV Index remains extremely high, with only slight variations, peaking at 16 in March and April. This consistent exposure means that January through May, as well as September through November, remain particularly high-risk months for sunburn, with a burn time as short as 10 minutes regardless of the month. Visitors and residents should take precautionary measures, such as wearing broad-spectrum sunscreen, protective clothing, and wide-brimmed hats when outdoors, especially during peak sun hours. Being mindful of UV exposure is essential for skin health all year round.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for La Merced, Colombia

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

The table above highlights how UV exposure in La Merced 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.

La Merced'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
La Merced	13	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