Last updated: May 3, 2025
In San Pedro de Atacama, Chile, understanding the UV Index is crucial for protecting your skin and enjoying the brilliant sun-soaked days the region is famous for. With a climate characterized as arid, the UV levels can peak remarkably high, reaching a maximum of 10 during midday. This means that even a short period of unprotected sun exposure can lead to sunburn and long-term skin health issues. As you explore the stunning landscapes and rich culture of San Pedro, being aware of and responding to UV levels is essential for safe outdoor activities and maintaining your wellbeing under the intense Atacama sun. Keep your skin safe and enjoy your adventures by staying informed!
The UV Index today showcases a dynamic spectrum of intensity, peaking sharply during the midday hours. Starting with a gentle introduction, the index remains at 1 from 07:00 to 08:00. As the sun climbs higher, it reaches a moderate 3 by 09:00 and escalates to a striking 10 by noon, indicating a critical time for sun safety. The intensity holds steady at 10 from 13:00 to 12:00, urging caution for outdoor activities. Following this pinnacle, the index declines, dropping to 8 by 14:00 and tapering off further to 5 by 15:00. As the sun sets, the UV exposure sharply decreases, landing back at 1 by 17:00 and fading to 0 by 18:00. Plan your day wisely, protecting your skin during those crucial hours when the sun's rays are at their strongest!
| Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 08:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 09:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 10:00 | 6 | high | 25 min |
| 11:00 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
| 12:00 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
| 13:00 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
| 14:00 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
| 15:00 | 5 | 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 |
The UV Index shows considerable variability throughout the year, with the highest values occurring from January to April, where it consistently reaches extreme levels above 16, resulting in a burn time of just 10 minutes. December and November also show extreme values, indicating that this period represents the highest risk for UV exposure. In May through July, the UV Index remains very high, ranging from 8 to 10, allowing for slightly longer burn times of 15 minutes. As we move into August and September, the UV Index peaks back to extreme levels, emphasizing the need for careful sun protection measures. Residents and visitors are advised to take precautions during these high-risk months by applying sunscreen regularly, wearing protective clothing, and seeking shade when possible, especially from October to April, where extreme UV exposure is prevalent.
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 |
| San Pedro de Atacama | 18 | 17 | 16 | 13 | 10 | 8 | 9 | 11 | 14 | 17 | 18 | 18 |