UV Index in Cali, Colombia

Last updated: June 2, 2025

In Cali, Colombia, understanding the UV Index is crucial for maintaining skin health and preventing sunburn. With its tropical climate and consistently high UV exposure, especially during midday hours, residents and visitors alike must stay informed about UV levels to protect themselves from harmful rays. Peak UV Index readings in Cali can soar as high as 14 between noon and 1 PM, making it essential to take precautions during these hours. By keeping a close eye on the UV Index, you can enjoy the sunny beauty of Cali while safeguarding your skin’s health!

Hourly UV Index in Cali

As the sun rises, the UV Index begins its ascent, starting at a mild 1 at 07:00. By 08:00, it climbs to 3, indicating a cautious need for sun protection. The real intensity kicks in by 09:00, reaching 6, and peaks at a striking 14 at 12:00—the hour when the sun is at its zenith. With readings of 13 still prevalent from 11:00 to 13:00, it’s a vital time to stay protected! As afternoon settles in, the UV levels gradually taper off; they dip to 6 by 15:00 and descend further to 3 at 16:00. By evening, the risk diminishes significantly with a return to 1 at 17:00, rounding off the day as twilight approaches with a 0 reading by 19:00. Stay safe in the sun!

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	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 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