UV Index in San Andres, Colombia

Last updated: June 2, 2025

Understanding the UV Index is crucial for maintaining skin health in San Andres, Colombia, a beautiful island renowned for its stunning beaches and year-round sunshine. With UV levels peaking in the late morning and early afternoon — reaching a maximum of 15 at noon — awareness of these fluctuating levels is paramount for preventing sunburn and long-term skin damage. Given San Andres’ tropical climate, residents and visitors alike face heightened risks from UV exposure, making it essential to stay informed and take protective measures when enjoying the sun. Stay vigilant and protect your skin to fully enjoy the natural beauty this island has to offer!

Hourly UV Index in San Andres

As the sun rises, the UV Index begins its ascent, peaking at 15 by 12:00 PM, signaling maximum sun exposure. The morning starts off gentle with a manageable UV Index of 2 at 7:00 AM, gradually climbing to 8 by 9:00 AM. By 10:00 AM, caution is advised as the index reaches 12, and it escalates further to a striking 14 at 11:00 AM. The afternoon is particularly intense, with 13 at 1:00 PM before it starts to taper off. As the day progresses, the UV levels decline, dropping to 6 by 3:00 PM and falling swiftly to 0 by 7:00 PM. It's a vivid reminder to protect your skin, especially 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	8	very high	15 min
10:00	12	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	3	moderate	30 min
17:00	1	low	45 min
18:00	0	low	45 min
19:00	0	low	45 min

Monthly UV Index Trends in San Andres

The UV Index in this region shows extreme levels throughout the year, peaking at 18 in both March and April. From January to May, the UV Index remains high, fluctuating from 14 to 18, with no month falling below 13. Despite slight declines in the summer months, June to October maintains a consistent UV Index of 15. Notably, February and March are the highest-risk months, where visitors and residents should be extra cautious. It is crucial for everyone to take protective measures such as wearing sunscreen, protective clothing, and seeking shade to minimize risks of sunburn and long-term skin damage, particularly during these high UV months.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for San Andres, Colombia

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

The table above highlights how UV exposure in San Andres 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.

San Andres'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
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
San Andres	14	16	18	18	16	15	15	15	15	15	13	13
Bogota UVI	15	16	18	18	17	15	15	16	15	15	14	13