UV Index in Colombia, Cuba

Last updated: June 2, 2025

Understanding the UV Index in Colombia and Cuba is essential for safeguarding your skin and overall health. With high levels of UV radiation, particularly during peak hours (12 PM to 1 PM), awareness of UV levels can help prevent painful sunburns and long-term skin damage. In Colombia's Aw climate zone, where intense sunlight and elevated UV exposure are common, it's crucial to stay informed and take proactive measures to protect yourself. Knowing when to seek shade or apply sunscreen can make all the difference in enjoying your time outdoors while preserving your skin health.

Hourly UV Index in Colombia

As the day unfolds, the UV Index reveals a dynamic sun intensity pattern. Starting with a cool 1 at 07:00 and 08:00, the UV rays begin to strengthen, climbing to 3 by 09:00. The sun reaches its zenith at 12:00, peaking at a blistering 12, before escalating to an impressive 13 at 13:00. Afterward, the intensity starts to wane, tapering off to 10 by 15:00 and then dropping back to 6 at 16:00. As evening approaches, the UV Index declines further, reaching a gentle 2 at 18:00 and settling back to 1 by the time the sun sets at 19:00. Enjoy the sunshine, but don’t forget to 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	1	low	45 min
09:00	3	moderate	30 min
10:00	6	high	25 min
11:00	9	very high	15 min
12:00	12	extreme	10 min
13:00	13	extreme	10 min
14:00	12	extreme	10 min
15:00	10	very high	15 min
16:00	6	high	25 min
17:00	4	moderate	30 min
18:00	2	low	45 min
19:00	1	low	45 min

Monthly UV Index Trends in Colombia

The UV Index experiences significant seasonal variation, peaking during the months of March to August with consistently extreme levels (Index 12-13) and a rapid burn time of just 10 minutes. This makes February through October the high-risk months for UV exposure, especially as spring leads into summer. Visitors and residents are strongly advised to take protective measures during these months, including wearing sunscreen, protective clothing, and hats, and seeking shade during peak sunlight hours. In contrast, January and November see reduced risk with a very high exposure category (Index 8) and a longer burn time of 15 minutes, while December offers a high exposure level (Index 7) with a burn time of 25 minutes. It is crucial to remain vigilant year-round, but particularly during the warmer months, to minimize the risk of UV-related health issues.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Colombia, Cuba

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

The table above highlights how UV exposure in Colombia compares to other major locations across Cuba. This comparison helps travelers and residents better understand regional sun intensity and plan outdoor activities with sun safety in mind.

Colombia's solar exposure compared to other cities in Cuba. Generated using Copernicus Atmosphere Monitoring Service information.
	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Havana UVI	7	10	11	12	12	13	12	12	12	10	8	7
Camaguey UVI	8	10	12	13	13	13	12	12	12	11	9	7
Colombia	8	11	12	13	13	13	12	13	12	11	8	7
Holguin UVI	8	11	12	13	13	13	13	13	12	11	8	7
Santiago de Cuba UVI	9	11	12	13	13	13	13	13	13	11	9	8
Guantanamo UVI	9	11	12	13	13	13	13	13	13	11	9	8