UV Index in Santa Marta, Panama

Last updated: July 2, 2025

Understanding the UV Index in Santa Marta, Panama, is essential for safeguarding your skin health and preventing sunburn. With a tropical climate that often brings high levels of UV radiation, awareness of the UV Index can help you plan your outdoor activities wisely. During peak hours, particularly between 11:00 AM and 1:00 PM, Santa Marta experiences dangerously high UV levels (up to 13), making it crucial to take protective measures. By staying informed about UV levels, you can enjoy the beautiful sunshine while minimizing the risk of harmful effects on your skin.

Hourly UV Index in Santa Marta

The UV Index throughout the day reveals a dynamic pattern that peaks dramatically around noon. Starting from 1 at 07:00, it gradually climbs to 2 by 08:00, then elevates sharply to 5 at 09:00. The sun’s strength intensifies significantly, reaching a peak of 13 by 12:00 and maintaining this intensity until 13:00. As the afternoon progresses, the UV index begins to decline, dropping to 11 at 14:00, and further down to 8 by 15:00. The evening brings a gentle descent, winding down to 1 at 18:00 and resting at 0 by 19:00. For outdoor enthusiasts, it's clear that the midday hours demand vigilance against sun exposure, while the early morning and late afternoon provide more comfortable UV conditions.

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
08:002low45 min
09:005moderate30 min
10:008very high15 min
11:0011extreme10 min
12:0013extreme10 min
13:0013extreme10 min
14:0011extreme10 min
15:008very high15 min
16:005moderate30 min
17:002low45 min
18:001low45 min
19:000low45 min

Monthly UV Index Trends in Santa Marta

The UV Index data reveals a consistent pattern of extreme UV exposure across several months, with the most critical period occurring from January to April, where the UV Index reaches its peak at 15 in April. This indicates a high-risk for sunburn, with a burn time as brief as 10 minutes during these months. Although the UV Index slightly decreases from May to November, it remains in the 12-14 range, maintaining an extreme risk level, particularly from September to November. December sees a drop to 10, still categorized as very high, with a longer burn time of 15 minutes. Residents and visitors are strongly advised to take precautions, including wearing protective clothing, applying sunscreen regularly, and seeking shade during peak hours, especially from January through November, to minimize the risk of skin damage.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Santa Marta, Panama

The monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) represents the highest UV radiation level recorded each month in Santa Marta. It measures the strength of ultraviolet radiation from the sun and helps assess the risk of sunburn and UV-related health issues.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec121414151413131314141210
Data source: Statistical UV Index data for Santa Marta, 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 Santa Marta UV Index with Other Panama Cities

The table above highlights how UV exposure in Santa Marta compares to other major locations across Panama. This comparison helps travelers and residents better understand regional sun intensity and plan outdoor activities with sun safety in mind.
Santa Marta's solar exposure compared to other cities in Panama. Generated using Copernicus Atmosphere Monitoring Service information.
 JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Arraijan UVI121314151413141313131110
Juan Diaz UVI121314151413141313131110
San Miguelito UVI121314151413141313131110
Panama UVI121314151413141313131110
Santa Marta121314151413131314141210
David UVI121314151413141314141211