UV Index in Cartago, Colombia

Last updated: July 2, 2025

Understanding the UV Index in Cartago, Colombia is crucial for the health and safety of residents and visitors alike. With the city's tropical climate and often intense sun exposure, being aware of UV levels can help prevent sunburn and long-term skin damage. During peak hours, especially around midday when the index can soar to 14, the risk for harmful UV radiation is high, making it essential to protect your skin. By staying informed about the UV Index, you can enjoy the beautiful Cartago sunshine while prioritizing your skin’s health.

Hourly UV Index in Cartago

The UV index today begins its gradual ascent at 07:00, peaking at a notable 14 by 12:00. As the sun reaches its zenith, the intensity of UV radiation can be felt, with an alarming index of 12 at 11:00 and 14 at noon—perfect reminders to lather up on sunscreen! After this peak, the values steadily decline, dropping to 10 at 14:00, and eventually tapering off to 1 by 17:00. As evening approaches, the UV index dips further to an almost negligible 0 by 19:00, signaling a safe time to bask in the sunset without worry. Stay sun-safe 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.
TimeUVICategoryTime to Burn
07:001low45 min
08:003moderate30 min
09:006high25 min
10:009very high15 min
11:0012extreme10 min
12:0014extreme10 min
13:0013extreme10 min
14:0010very high15 min
15:006high25 min
16:003moderate30 min
17:001low45 min
18:001low45 min
19:000low45 min

Monthly UV Index Trends in Cartago

Throughout the year, the UV Index remains critically high in this region, with levels categorized as extreme from January to May and consistently high from June through November. March stands out with an index of 16, marking it as one of the peak months for UV exposure, closely followed by April. Visitors and residents are advised to take immediate precautions during these high-risk months, particularly from January to May when the burn time is as short as 10 minutes across all months. It's crucial to wear protective clothing, apply broad-spectrum sunscreen, and seek shade whenever possible to minimize the risk of UV-related health issues.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Cartago, Colombia

The monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) represents the highest UV radiation level recorded each month in Cartago. It measures the strength of ultraviolet radiation from the sun and helps assess the risk of sunburn and UV-related health issues.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec141516161514141414141212
Data source: Statistical UV Index data for Cartago, 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 Cartago UV Index with Other Colombia Cities

The table above highlights how UV exposure in Cartago 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.
Cartago's solar exposure compared to other cities in Colombia. Generated using Copernicus Atmosphere Monitoring Service information.
 JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Barranquilla UVI111214141312131313131110
Cartagena UVI111113151313121313131110
Cartago141516161514141414141212
Medellin UVI141517161614141514141312
Cali UVI151617171514141415141312
Bogota UVI151618181715151615151413