Last updated: July 2, 2025
In Calama, Chile, awareness of the UV Index is crucial for anyone who enjoys the sun or spends time outdoors. The intensity of ultraviolet radiation can vary significantly throughout the day, peaking between 10 AM and 2 PM, making it essential to understand UV levels to prevent sunburn and protect skin health. With Calama's distinctive BWk climate, characterized by its arid conditions, residents and visitors face increased risks of UV exposure. During midday hours, the UV Index can soar as high as 9, highlighting the importance of sun safety measures such as wearing sunscreen, protective clothing, and seeking shade. Stay informed and keep your skin safe while enjoying the beautiful landscapes of Calama!
The UV Index paints a vivid picture of sun exposure throughout the day. Starting with a zero at 07:00, the day gradually awakens with a gentle rise to 1 by 08:00. As the sun climbs higher, the index surges to a moderate 2 at 09:00, but the real intensity strikes at 11:00, peaking at 8 and reaching its maximum of 9 by 13:00. This sun-soaked afternoon prompts a decrease, with readings falling to 7 at 14:00 and gradually tapering to 5 by 15:00. The evening brings a welcome decline as the index sinks back to 1 at 17:00, before ultimately returning to 0 by 19:00. With such variations throughout the hours, it’s a reminder to embrace sun safety during those peak UV moments!
| Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07:00 | 0 | low | 45 min |
| 08:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 09:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 10:00 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
| 11:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 12:00 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
| 13:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 14:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 15:00 | 5 | 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 |
The UV Index data indicates significant seasonal changes, with the highest risk months being January, February, March, November, and December, all classified under the extreme exposure category with a UV Index of 17 and a quick burn time of just 10 minutes. April follows closely with a UV Index of 12, still classified as extreme. As the seasons transition into summer, the UV Index begins to moderate, dropping to a very high category in May, July, and August with values between 9 and 10, allowing for slightly longer exposure times—up to 15 minutes. However, September sees a spike back to an extreme category of 13, alerting residents and visitors to remain vigilant as the year progresses. Overall, it is crucial for everyone to take precautionary measures against UV exposure, particularly during these high-risk months by wearing sunscreen, protective clothing, and limiting direct sun exposure during peak hours.
UV Risk Categories
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Santiago UVI | 14 | 12 | 11 | 7 | 5 | 3 | 4 | 6 | 8 | 11 | 12 | 14 |
| Valparaiso UVI | 14 | 12 | 11 | 8 | 5 | 4 | 4 | 6 | 8 | 11 | 12 | 14 |
| Vina del Mar UVI | 14 | 12 | 11 | 8 | 5 | 4 | 4 | 6 | 8 | 11 | 12 | 14 |
| Puente Alto UVI | 15 | 14 | 12 | 8 | 6 | 4 | 6 | 8 | 11 | 12 | 14 | 15 |
| Antofagasta UVI | 15 | 15 | 13 | 10 | 8 | 6 | 7 | 9 | 11 | 14 | 15 | 15 |
| Calama | 17 | 17 | 15 | 12 | 9 | 7 | 9 | 10 | 13 | 16 | 17 | 17 |