Last updated: July 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors of Mejillones, Chile, where the sun's intensity can pose significant risks. With a typical climate classification of BWk, Mejillones experiences varying UV levels throughout the day, peaking around noon with values as high as 7. By keeping an eye on the UV Index, you can effectively prevent sunburn and protect your skin health, ensuring that outdoor activities are both enjoyable and safe. Awareness of UV levels not only helps you gauge the need for sunscreen and protective clothing but also fosters a deeper appreciation for the stunning coastal environment in Mejillones. Remember, even on cloudy days, UV rays can still reach you and cause harm!
The UV Index throughout the day reveals a dynamic and vibrant midday sun. Starting at 07:00, the UV levels are negligible at 0, slowly rising to 1 by 08:00. As the clock ticks towards 10:00, the intensity escalates to 4, reaching its peak at 12:00 with a robust 7. This high level of UV radiation continues until 14:00, when it slightly declines to 6. As the afternoon progresses, it tapers off, dropping to 4 at 15:00, and further decreasing to 2 by 16:00. The evening ushers in a calming effect, with levels settling back to 1 at 17:00 and 18:00, before retreating to 0 by 19:00. This pattern emphasizes the importance of sun protection during the daylight hours, especially when the index peaks at midday.
| 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 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 19:00 | 0 | low | 45 min |
The UV Index demonstrates significant seasonal variations, with extreme levels recorded from January through March, peaking at 15 and requiring just 10 minutes of exposure for skin to burn. April and May see a slight decline but remain in the very high category (UV Index 10 and 8, respectively), with burn times extending to 15 minutes. From June to August, the UV Index drops to the high and very high ranges (UV Index 6 to 9), allowing for longer safe exposure times of 25 minutes to 15 minutes. However, the risk escalates again in September, October, and November, with another spike to extreme levels (UV Index 11 to 14), necessitating quick precautionary measures as burn times reduce to 10 minutes. Therefore, visitors and residents should take extra care during the high-risk months of January, February, March, September, October, and November by wearing protective clothing, applying sunscreen regularly, and limiting sun exposure, especially 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 |
| Mejillones | 15 | 15 | 13 | 10 | 8 | 6 | 7 | 9 | 11 | 14 | 14 | 15 |
| Antofagasta UVI | 15 | 15 | 13 | 10 | 8 | 6 | 7 | 9 | 11 | 14 | 15 | 15 |