Last updated: July 2, 2025
Awareness of the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors in Vetas, Colombia, where the sun's intensity can pose significant risks to skin health. Understanding UV levels is essential for preventing sunburn and long-term skin damage, especially during peak hours when the index reaches a maximum of 15 between 11:00 AM and 12:00 PM. With a Cfb climate characterized by mild temperatures and varying altitudes, the UV exposure can be deceptively high. Stay informed and take proactive measures to protect your skin while enjoying the natural beauty that Vetas has to offer.
The UV Index throughout the day reveals a dramatic rise and fall in sunshine intensity. Early risers, like those awake at 7:00 AM, will find a moderate index of 2, perfect for a leisurely morning. However, as the clock ticks towards 10:00 AM, the UV index skyrockets to 12—a clear call for sun protection! The peak occurs around 11:00 AM to 12:00 PM, where it reaches a sizzling 15, urging everyone to lather up on sunscreen. By 2:00 PM, the intensity starts to wane, but still remains notable at 10 before tapering off further into the evening. As sunset approaches, the UV Index dwindles to a gentle 1 by 5:00 PM and fades to 0 by 7:00 PM, signaling the safe return of evening activities. Stay sun-smart during peak hours and enjoy the sunlight responsibly! 🌞
| 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 | 15 | 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 |
The UV Index in this region remains consistently high throughout the year, with values reaching a peak of 18 in March and April, categorizing those months as high-risk for sun exposure. Specifically, the months of February through May stand out as especially critical, where the UV Index remains at 16 or higher. Visitors and residents are strongly advised to take precautionary measures during these high-risk months, including wearing protective clothing, applying sunscreen with a high SPF, and limiting direct sun exposure to no more than 10 minutes at a time to prevent skin damage. As the UV Index begins to decline in late fall and winter, with values dropping to 13 in November and December, vigilance remains essential, as even lower UV levels can still pose a risk.
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 |
| 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 |
| Vetas | 15 | 16 | 18 | 18 | 17 | 15 | 15 | 16 | 16 | 15 | 13 | 13 |