UV Index in Cali, Colombia

Last updated: July 2, 2025

In the heart of Cali, Colombia, understanding the UV Index is crucial for protecting your skin from the sun's harmful rays. With its tropical climate, Cali experiences high UV levels, particularly during midday, making it essential for residents and visitors alike to monitor these readings. Knowing the UV levels allows for effective sunburn prevention and promotes long-term skin health by enabling you to take appropriate precautions. Throughout the day, UV indices in Cali can peak at a striking 14, highlighting the importance of staying informed and safe while enjoying the outdoors.

Hourly UV Index in Cali

As the sun rises, the UV Index begins its steady climb, starting at a mild 1 by 7:00 AM. By 8:00 AM, it nudges up to 3, signaling the need for some caution. The intensity reaches a notable 6 by 9:00 AM, but it’s from 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM when the sun truly asserts its power, peaking at a scorching 14 at noon. Fortunately, the index starts to dip slightly, maintaining a robust 10 at 2:00 PM before gradually descending to a 1 by late afternoon. As daylight wanes, the UV Index drops to 0 by 7:00 PM, bringing a welcome relief as the day comes to a close. Stay sun-smart and protect your skin 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	1	low	45 min
08:00	3	moderate	30 min
09:00	6	high	25 min
10:00	10	very high	15 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	7	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 Cali

Throughout the year, the UV Index remains consistently high, with values indicating extreme exposure risk, particularly from January to May, when the index peaks at 17. March and April are identified as the highest risk months, with UV levels at their maximum. As summer approaches, there is a slight decline in the UV Index, with a low of 12 in December, but the risk remains substantial throughout the colder months. Residents and visitors should take precautionary measures year-round, including wearing protective clothing, using broad-spectrum sunscreen, and seeking shade, especially during midday hours, as burn times are alarmingly short at just 10 minutes across all months. It is essential to be vigilant about UV exposure, regardless of the season.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Cali, Colombia

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

The table above highlights how UV exposure in Cali 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.

Cali'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	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