Last updated: May 3, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents of San Rafael, Argentina. With its semi-arid climate, the region experiences notable sun exposure that can pose risks for skin health, particularly during the peak sunlight hours. Awareness of UV levels not only helps in preventing sunburn but also promotes long-term skin wellness. For instance, during midday, the UV Index can reach levels as high as 5, prompting the need for protective measures. Stay informed and enjoy the sun safely in San Rafael!
As the sun traced its arc across the sky, the UV Index rose steadily through the morning and peaked in the early afternoon. Starting from a cool 0 at 7:00 and 8:00, it made its way to 1 by 9:00, then ramped up to 3 at 11:00 and reached its maximum of 5 between 13:00 and 14:00, indicating a significant potential for skin damage without protection. As the day wanned, the index began to decline, dropping to 4 at 15:00 and then gradually decreasing to 1 by 17:00. By the evening, at 19:00, the UV Index returned to a safe 0, marking the end of a sun-filled day. Remember, whether you're outside in the peak hours or winding down, always take care to protect your skin!
| 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 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 11:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 12:00 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
| 13:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 14:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 15:00 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
| 16:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 17:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 18:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 19:00 | 0 | low | 45 min |
Throughout the year, UV Index values fluctuate significantly, with extreme risk levels occurring mainly in January, February, March, October, November, and December—all of which have a UV Index of 15 or higher and a burn time of just 10 minutes. From April to August, the UV Index dips to very high and moderate categories, reaching a peak in April at 8 and returning to 6 in August. Visitors and residents are strongly advised to take precautions during the high-risk months of January, February, March, October, and November by wearing protective clothing, using broad-spectrum sunscreen, and limiting sun exposure, particularly during midday 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 |
| Rosario UVI | 14 | 13 | 11 | 8 | 5 | 4 | 4 | 6 | 8 | 11 | 13 | 14 |
| San Rafael | 15 | 13 | 11 | 8 | 5 | 4 | 4 | 6 | 8 | 11 | 14 | 15 |
| 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 |