Last updated: June 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is essential for residents and visitors of Santa Marta, Italy, a charming locale that experiences distinctive seasonal variations. As the UV levels can soar to a high of 9 during midday, awareness of these fluctuations is crucial for preventing sunburn and protecting skin health. Embracing the Mediterranean climate, Santa Marta offers delightful sunny days, but these come with increased risks of overexposure to harmful ultraviolet radiation. By staying informed about the UV Index, you can enjoy the sunny outdoors while minimizing the potential dangers for a healthier lifestyle.
As the sun rises, the UV Index begins its ascent, starting at a mild 1 at 07:00. By 08:00, it climbs to a 2, indicating a low risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure. However, from 09:00 onwards, the intensity builds, peaking at 9 between 13:00 and 14:00—a time when precautions are essential to protect skin from damage. The afternoon hours see a slight decrease, dropping to 8 at 15:00 and further declining to 4 by 17:00. As the sun sets, the UV Index falls back down to 1 by 19:00, marking a return to safer levels. Stay vigilant during those midday hours to enjoy the sunshine while keeping your skin healthy!
| Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 08:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 09:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 10:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 11:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 12:00 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
| 13:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 14:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 15:00 | 8 | 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 |
The UV Index exhibits significant seasonal variation, with the highest levels occurring between May and August, where values peak at 9 during June and July, indicating a very high exposure category. Visitors and residents should be especially cautious during these months, as the burn time drops to just 15 minutes. March through April also pose a risk with high UV levels of 6 and 7, respectively, while the index decreases in the winter months, reaching a low of 2 in January and December, where burn time extends to 45 minutes. To ensure safety from harmful UV radiation, it is advisable to wear protective clothing, utilize broad-spectrum sunscreen, and seek shade during high-risk months, particularly from May to August. As UV levels fluctuate throughout the year, remaining vigilant is essential for skin health.
UV Risk Categories
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Milan UVI | 2 | 3 | 5 | 6 | 8 | 9 | 9 | 8 | 6 | 5 | 3 | 2 |
| Santa Marta | 2 | 3 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 9 | 9 | 8 | 7 | 5 | 3 | 2 |
| Turin UVI | 2 | 3 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 10 | 9 | 9 | 7 | 5 | 3 | 2 |
| Rome UVI | 3 | 4 | 5 | 7 | 8 | 10 | 10 | 9 | 7 | 5 | 4 | 2 |
| Naples UVI | 3 | 4 | 6 | 7 | 9 | 10 | 10 | 9 | 8 | 6 | 4 | 2 |
| Palermo UVI | 3 | 5 | 6 | 8 | 9 | 10 | 10 | 9 | 8 | 7 | 4 | 3 |