Last updated: May 3, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors in Contratacion, Colombia, a region characterized by its tropical, humid climate. With UV levels peaking at a staggering 15 during midday hours, being aware of these measurements is essential for preventing sunburn and maintaining skin health. The sun's intense rays can cause significant damage in just a short exposure time, making it vital to monitor UV risks throughout the day. By staying informed about the daily UV Index, you can take proactive steps to enjoy the beautiful sun while protecting your skin from harmful effects.
As the sun rises, the UV Index begins its ascent, peaking at 15 around noon. The day starts with a moderate index of 2 at 7 AM, but by 10 AM, it escalates to an intense 11, signaling the need for protection as outdoor activity becomes increasingly hazardous. This reaches its maximum severity at 11 AM with a blistering 14 before slightly tapering off in the early afternoon. By 3 PM, it drops to a more manageable 6, and as evening approaches, it dwindles to 0 by 7 PM, indicating a safe time to enjoy the outdoors without the worry of UV exposure. Remember to stay sun-smart during those peak hours!
Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
---|---|---|---|
07:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
08:00 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
09:00 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
10:00 | 11 | 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 | 2 | low | 45 min |
17:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
18:00 | 0 | low | 45 min |
19:00 | 0 | low | 45 min |
Throughout the year, the UV Index remains consistently extreme from January to November, with values peaking in March and April at 16. February also shows a high value of 14, making it important for all months to take sun safety precautions seriously, especially from January to May when the UV levels are particularly elevated. Visitors and residents are advised to limit direct sun exposure to 10 minutes during peak hours, wear protective clothing, and apply broad-spectrum sunscreen regularly to minimize the risk of sunburn and skin damage. Even in the later months, like November and December, when the UV Index is slightly reduced, caution is still recommended as the exposure category remains extreme.
UV Risk Categories
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 |
Contratacion | 13 | 14 | 16 | 16 | 15 | 14 | 14 | 14 | 14 | 14 | 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 |