UV Index in California, Colombia

Last updated: June 2, 2025

In California, Colombia, being aware of the UV Index is crucial for safeguarding your skin against harmful ultraviolet rays. Understanding UV levels can significantly help in preventing sunburn and promoting overall skin health, especially in a region where the climate tends to have mild, wet winters and warm, dry summers. With the UV Index peaking at a staggering 14 during midday hours, it’s essential for residents and visitors alike to take precautions when enjoying the outdoors. By staying informed about UV exposure risks, you can better protect yourself and enjoy the beauty of California safely.

Hourly UV Index in California

The UV Index today presents a dynamic journey through the hours, starting mild at 07:00 with a score of 2. By 08:00, it climbs to 4, and then exponentially peaks at 14 during the noon hour of 12:00. The sun's intensity is a force to reckon with, reaching its zenith at 11:00 with a maximum of 13. However, as the afternoon progresses, the index begins to decline; by 14:00, it drops to 9, and by 16:00, it further sinks to 3. The evening transitions into a safer zone, with values returning to 1 by 17:00 and 18:00, finally resting at 0 by 19:00. This data highlights the importance of sun protection, particularly during those 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	7	high	25 min
10:00	11	extreme	10 min
11:00	13	extreme	10 min
12:00	14	extreme	10 min
13:00	12	extreme	10 min
14:00	9	very high	15 min
15:00	5	moderate	30 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 California

The UV Index exhibits extreme levels throughout the year, with notable peaks occurring from March to April, where it reaches 15 to 16 and maintains a high level into early May. Visitors and residents should be particularly vigilant during February and March, when the index rises to 14 and 15, making these some of the highest-risk months for sun exposure, with a dangerously short burn time of just 10 minutes year-round. As such, it is crucial to adopt proactive sun protection measures, including using sunscreen, wearing protective clothing, and seeking shade, especially in midday hours. Even during the months of October and November, when the index decreases to 13 and 12, respectively, the risk remains significant, urging continued caution to prevent sun damage.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for California, Colombia

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

The table above highlights how UV exposure in California 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.

California'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
California	12	14	15	16	15	14	13	13	14	13	12	11
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