UV Index in Calama, Chile

Last updated: June 2, 2025

Understanding the UV Index in Calama, Chile is crucial for protecting your skin and overall health. With its desert climate characterized by intense sunlight, residents and visitors alike face heightened risks of sunburn and long-term skin damage. During the peak hours, particularly between 11:00 AM and 1:00 PM, UV levels can soar to 7, signaling a need for proper sun protection strategies. Awareness of these UV levels not only fosters preventive measures against sunburn but also empowers the community to maintain healthier skin under the radiating sun of Calama. Stay informed and stay safe!

Hourly UV Index in Calama

The UV Index for the day presents a dynamic profile, starting from a protective 0 at 07:00 and slowly rising throughout the morning. By 10:00, it reaches a moderate 4, escalating to a peak of 7 between 12:00 and 13:00, indicating it’s time for sun safety precautions. As the afternoon progresses, the index dips gradually; by 16:00, it falls to 2, and finally returns to 0 by 18:00. Plan your day accordingly—early morning and late evening are your best bets for sun exposure, while midday calls for care!

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	0	low	45 min
08:00	1	low	45 min
09:00	2	low	45 min
10:00	4	moderate	30 min
11:00	6	high	25 min
12:00	7	high	25 min
13:00	7	high	25 min
14:00	6	high	25 min
15:00	4	moderate	30 min
16:00	2	low	45 min
17:00	1	low	45 min
18:00	0	low	45 min
19:00	0	low	45 min

Monthly UV Index Trends in Calama

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.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Calama, Chile

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

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

Calama's solar exposure compared to other cities in Chile. Generated using Copernicus Atmosphere Monitoring Service information.
	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