UV Index in Columbia, United States

Last updated: May 3, 2025

In Columbia, United States, staying informed about the UV Index is crucial for safeguarding your skin and overall health. With peak UV levels reaching a striking 10 around midday, understanding these exposure risks can help you prevent painful sunburns and long-term skin damage. Columbia’s Cfa climate brings warm summers and ample sunshine, making it essential to monitor UV readings regularly. By being UV-aware, you can enjoy outdoor activities while protecting yourself and your loved ones from harmful rays.

Hourly UV Index in Columbia

The UV Index rises swiftly throughout the morning, starting from a low of 1 at 07:00 and climbing steadily to reach its peak of 10 at 13:00. As the sun reaches its zenith, the index hits 9 at 12:00, a clear reminder of the intense midday sun. After this high, the UV levels gradually decrease; by 15:00, they drop to 8 and continue to soften to 3 by 17:00, before safely settling back to a 1 at 19:00. It's essential to stay protected during those peak hours, particularly between 11:00 and 14:00, when the sun’s rays can be most dangerous. Remember to apply sunscreen and wear protective clothing to keep your skin safe while enjoying the outdoors!

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	2	low	45 min
09:00	3	moderate	30 min
10:00	5	moderate	30 min
11:00	8	very high	15 min
12:00	9	very high	15 min
13:00	10	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	3	moderate	30 min
18:00	2	low	45 min
19:00	1	low	45 min

Monthly UV Index Trends in Columbia

Throughout the year, UV exposure varies significantly, with high-risk months typically occurring from March to September. During these months, particularly in April through July, the UV index reaches notably high levels, peaking at 11, which indicates extreme exposure risks and a quick burn time of just 10 minutes. As the seasons shift, visitors and residents should be particularly vigilant from May to August, when protective measures such as sunscreen, hats, and seeking shade are essential to prevent skin damage. In contrast, January, November, and December present a moderate UV index of 3-4, allowing for longer burn times of 30 minutes, though sunscreen should still be applied. Staying informed about these UV changes can help ensure safe outdoor activities year-round.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Columbia, United States

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

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

Columbia's solar exposure compared to other cities in United States. Generated using Copernicus Atmosphere Monitoring Service information.
	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Chicago UVI	3	4	6	8	9	10	10	9	8	6	4	2
Brooklyn UVI	3	5	6	8	10	10	9	9	8	6	4	2
New York City UVI	3	5	6	8	10	10	9	9	8	6	4	2
Columbia	3	5	7	9	10	11	11	10	9	6	4	3
Los Angeles UVI	4	6	8	9	10	11	11	10	10	7	5	4
Houston UVI	5	8	9	11	11	12	12	11	10	9	7	5