UV Index in Sierra Gorda, Chile

Last updated: June 2, 2025

In Sierra Gorda, Chile, understanding the UV Index is crucial for safeguarding your skin and overall health. With the region's BWk climate, sun exposure can be intense, especially between 10 AM and 2 PM when UV levels peak at a high of 7. Being aware of these levels is essential for preventing sunburn and long-term skin damage, allowing you to enjoy outdoor activities without compromising your health. Remember, even on seemingly mild days, UV rays can lead to harmful effects, making it vital to monitor and respond to the UV Index daily.

Hourly UV Index in Sierra Gorda

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 Sierra Gorda

Throughout the year, the UV Index demonstrates significant seasonal variability, with extreme values typically occurring from January to April and then again in September to December. The highest risk months, characterized by a UV Index of 17, are from January to February and again in October to November, indicating a very short burn time of just 10 minutes. March and September also present elevated risk with indices of 15 and 13, respectively. In contrast, the summer months of May through August show a moderate reduction in UV levels, though they remain classified as either very high or high, with burn times up to 25 minutes in June. Visitors and residents are strongly advised to take precautions during high UV periods, particularly in the extreme months, by wearing sun protection, such as clothing, hats, and sunscreen, and by seeking shade whenever possible to minimize the risk of skin damage.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Sierra Gorda, Chile

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

The table above highlights how UV exposure in Sierra Gorda 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.

Sierra Gorda'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
Sierra Gorda	17	17	15	12	9	7	9	10	13	16	16	17