Last updated: June 2, 2025
In Vicuna Mackenna, Argentina, understanding the UV Index is crucial for both sun safety and skin health. With a predominantly Cfa climate, residents and visitors alike should be aware of daily UV levels to prevent sunburn and long-term skin damage. During the sunniest hours, particularly from 11:00 AM to 3:00 PM, UV intensity can reach up to 4, highlighting the need for protective measures against harmful rays. Being informed about the UV Index empowers you to enjoy the outdoors safely while minimizing exposure risks.
At dawn, the UV Index starts the day at a refreshingly low 0 until 9:00 AM, making it a perfect time for morning strolls without sun concerns. As the clock ticks to 10:00 AM, it creeps up to 1, signaling the sun's gradual strength. By 11:00 AM, the index rises to 2, prompting some caution for those spending time outdoors. The sun reaches its peak intensity at 12:00 PM with a UV Index of 3, and it continues to climb to a maximum of 4 at 1:00 PM—ideal for applying sunscreen! The index then slightly dips to 3 by 2:00 PM and remains steady through 3:00 PM, before tapering off in the late afternoon. By 6:00 PM, it dwindles to 1, finally retreating back to 0 by 7:00 PM, marking the day's end for UV exposure. Be sure to take precautions during those midday hours when the sun is most potent!
| Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07:00 | 0 | low | 45 min |
| 08:00 | 0 | low | 45 min |
| 09:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 10:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 11:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 12:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 13:00 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
| 14:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 15:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 16:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 17:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 18:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 19:00 | 0 | low | 45 min |
Throughout the year, UV index levels fluctuate significantly, indicating periods of heightened sun exposure risk. January, February, March, October, November, and December are the high-risk months, with extreme UV levels (UV Index 14-11) and rapid burn times as short as 10 minutes. In contrast, during April and September, the UV index drops slightly to 8, falling into the very high category, requiring vigilance with a burn time of 15 minutes. The summer months of May, June, and July see a moderate UV index, allowing for safer exposure of 30 minutes, while August experiences a transition to a high risk level with a UV index of 6. It is crucial for both visitors and residents to take appropriate sun safety measures during these high UV index periods, including wearing sunscreen, protective clothing, and seeking shade during peak hours.
UV Risk Categories
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Buenos Aires UVI | 14 | 13 | 11 | 7 | 5 | 4 | 4 | 6 | 8 | 10 | 13 | 14 |
| Vicuna Mackenna | 14 | 13 | 11 | 8 | 5 | 4 | 4 | 6 | 8 | 11 | 14 | 14 |
| Rosario UVI | 14 | 13 | 11 | 8 | 5 | 4 | 4 | 6 | 8 | 11 | 13 | 14 |
| Mendoza UVI | 15 | 14 | 12 | 8 | 6 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 9 | 12 | 14 | 15 |
| Cordoba UVI | 15 | 13 | 12 | 9 | 6 | 4 | 5 | 7 | 9 | 12 | 14 | 15 |
| San Miguel de Tucuman UVI | 15 | 14 | 13 | 10 | 7 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 10 | 13 | 15 | 15 |