UV Index in San Marcos, Colombia

Last updated: May 3, 2025

Understanding the UV Index in San Marcos, Colombia is crucial for safeguarding your skin and overall health in this beautiful, tropical climate. With UV levels often reaching dangerous heights—peaking at an intense 14 around midday—awareness of these radiation levels can help prevent painful sunburns and long-term skin damage. By keeping track of the UV Index, you can make informed decisions about sun protection, especially during the hottest hours of the day. San Marcos boasts a warm, vibrant atmosphere year-round, but that also means a heightened risk of UV exposure. Stay informed and enjoy the sun safely!

Hourly UV Index in San Marcos

The UV Index throughout the day reveals a dynamic shift in sun intensity. As early as 7:00 AM, it starts at a moderate level of 1, but by 9:00 AM, it climbs to a more potent 7. The peak arrives around 12:00 PM, hitting an intense 14, signaling the need for sun protection. As the afternoon progresses, the index gradually declines, reaching 6 by 3:00 PM, then trailing off to 1 by 5:00 PM and below, settling at 0 by 7:00 PM. This data underscores the importance of being vigilant during midday hours when UV exposure is at its highest. Stay safe and enjoy the sun wisely!

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	13	extreme	10 min
12:00	14	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	1	low	45 min
19:00	0	low	45 min

Monthly UV Index Trends in San Marcos

The UV Index displays significant seasonal fluctuations, peaking from February to April with values reaching as high as 15 in April, indicating an extreme exposure category with a burn time of just 10 minutes. The highest-risk months for UV exposure are March and April, where precautions are especially crucial. Throughout the year, residents and visitors should remain vigilant, particularly during these months, and take appropriate measures such as wearing sunscreen, protective clothing, and seeking shade during peak hours. Even during December and November, when the UV Index is slightly lower at 11 and 10, respectively, the risk of skin damage remains significant, emphasizing the need for continued sun safety practices.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for San Marcos, Colombia

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

The table above highlights how UV exposure in San Marcos 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 Marcos'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
San Marcos	11	12	14	15	14	13	13	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