UV Index in Medellin, Mexico

Last updated: May 3, 2025

In the vibrant city of Medellin, Mexico, understanding the UV Index is crucial for safeguarding your skin against harmful sun exposure. With UV levels that can soar as high as 14 during peak hours, awareness is key to preventing sunburns and promoting long-term skin health. Medellin's pleasant climate provides plenty of sunshine, but it also brings increased risks associated with high UV radiation. By monitoring the UV Index, residents and visitors alike can make informed decisions on outdoor activities, ensuring they enjoy the sunny weather while minimizing potential damage from direct sunlight.

Hourly UV Index in Medellin

Starting from the early hours of the day, the UV Index begins at a low 1 at 07:00, gradually climbing to 3 by 09:00. As the morning progresses, the intensity ramps up significantly, peaking at an impressive 14 around 13:00. The sun’s strength remains formidable, with a 12 at 12:00 and 10 at 11:00. After this midday apex, the UV levels start to decline—dropping to 11 by 15:00 and tapering to 4 at 17:00. As evening approaches, the index returns to a safe 1 by 19:00, signaling a gentle end to the day's solar exposure. It's essential to take precautions during the peak hours, especially between 10:00 and 14:00, when UV radiation is at its most intense.

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	10	very high	15 min
12:00	12	extreme	10 min
13:00	14	extreme	10 min
14:00	13	extreme	10 min
15:00	11	extreme	10 min
16:00	7	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 Medellin

Throughout the year, UV exposure fluctuates significantly, with the highest risk months occurring from February to October when the UV Index peaks at 13-14 in the summer months. During this period, the burn time is incredibly short—only 10 minutes—indicating extreme exposure levels. Notably, March and April maintain a consistent UV Index of 12-13, reinforcing the need for heightened sun safety measures. January, November, and December present very high risk levels but offer slightly longer burn times of 15 minutes. To ensure safety, visitors and residents should seek shade, wear protective clothing, and regularly apply high-SPF sunscreen, especially during the peak months of February through October.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Medellin, Mexico

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

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

Medellin's solar exposure compared to other cities in Mexico. Generated using Copernicus Atmosphere Monitoring Service information.
	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Medellin	9	11	12	13	13	14	14	13	13	11	9	8
Guadalajara UVI	9	11	14	14	14	13	13	13	13	12	9	8
Iztapalapa UVI	10	12	14	15	14	14	14	14	14	12	10	8
Ecatepec de Morelos UVI	10	12	14	15	15	14	14	13	14	12	10	8
Mexico City UVI	10	12	14	15	15	14	14	13	14	12	10	8
Puebla UVI	10	12	14	15	15	15	15	14	14	13	10	9