UV Index in San Marcos, Colombia

Last updated: August 1, 2025

In San Marcos, Colombia, understanding the UV Index is crucial for safeguarding your health under the sun. With a tropical climate that features intense sunlight, knowing the UV levels can significantly reduce the risk of sunburn and long-term skin damage. The UV Index in San Marcos peaks at 13 around midday, indicating a very high risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure. By staying informed about daily UV levels and taking appropriate precautions, residents and visitors alike can enjoy the beautiful outdoor environment without compromising their skin health.

Hourly UV Index in San Marcos

As the day unfolds, the UV Index rises dramatically, peaking at 13 around 12:00 PM, signaling a maximum level of sun intensity. Early morning hours start off mild, with a low of 1 at 07:00 and climbing steadily to 6 by 09:00. The sun reaches its zenith at 11:00, with a value of 12, before gradually declining through the afternoon. By 15:00, the index drops to 6, further falling to 3 by 16:00 and finally returning to a safe 1 by 17:00. As twilight approaches, the index settles to 0 after 19:00, providing a serene close to the day. Remember to protect your skin during the peak hours from 10 AM to 2 PM, when the sun's rays are most potent!

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	3	moderate	30 min
09:00	6	high	25 min
10:00	9	very high	15 min
11:00	12	extreme	10 min
12:00	13	extreme	10 min
13:00	12	extreme	10 min
14:00	9	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