UV Index in Santa Marta, Spain

Last updated: August 1, 2025

In Santa Marta, Spain, understanding the UV Index is crucial for protecting your skin from harmful ultraviolet rays. With the sun reaching its peak intensity in the early afternoon, being aware of the UV levels allows residents and visitors to take proactive measures against sunburn and long-term skin damage. The local Mediterranean climate means plenty of sunny days, but it also brings higher UV exposure risks, particularly between 12:00 PM and 3:00 PM when the index peaks at an alarming 11. By staying informed about the UV Index, you can enjoy the beautiful weather while ensuring your skin stays healthy and safe.

Hourly UV Index in Santa Marta

The UV Index today exhibits a dramatic rise from morning to afternoon, starting at a negligible 0 at 07:00. It gradually increases, reaching 1 by 08:00, before making a noticeable leap to 3 at 10:00. As the sun reaches its zenith, the intensity peaks at an impressive 11 between 14:00 and 15:00, signaling a strong risk for exposure. By late afternoon, the index begins to decline, tapering off to 7 at 17:00, and finishing with a gentle drop to 2 by 19:00. It's a vivid reminder that sun protection is essential during those peak hours when the UV rays are at their most potent.

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
07:000low45 min
08:001low45 min
09:001low45 min
10:002low45 min
11:004moderate30 min
12:007high25 min
13:009very high15 min
14:0010very high15 min
15:0010very high15 min
16:008very high15 min
17:006high25 min
18:004moderate30 min
19:002low45 min

Monthly UV Index Trends in Santa Marta

Throughout the year, the UV Index experiences notable variations, with the highest risk months occurring from April to August. During this period, the UV Index peaks at 11 in June and July, categorizing these months as having extreme exposure levels with a burn time of just 10 minutes. In contrast, the lowest risk months are January and December, where the UV Index remains at 3, indicating a moderate risk with a burn time of 30 minutes. Visitors and residents are strongly advised to take precautions during peak months by applying sunscreen, wearing protective clothing, and seeking shade, particularly between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. to minimize the risk of sunburn and skin damage.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Santa Marta, Spain

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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec3579101111109743
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 Spain Cities

The table above highlights how UV exposure in Santa Marta compares to other major locations across Spain. 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 Spain. Generated using Copernicus Atmosphere Monitoring Service information.
 JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Barcelona UVI34578101097632
Zaragoza UVI34689111198632
Valencia UVI34689111098643
Madrid UVI346810111198643
Santa Marta3579101111109743
Sevilla UVI3579101110109743