Last updated: May 3, 2025
In Pucon, Chile, understanding the UV Index is crucial for protecting your skin while enjoying the stunning natural beauty the area has to offer. With UV levels reaching as high as 4 during midday hours, being aware of these levels is vital for sunburn prevention and maintaining long-term skin health. The region's Cfb climate brings mild temperatures, but the sun can be deceptively strong, especially during the summer months. Stay informed about the UV Index and take the necessary precautions to enjoy the outdoors safely!
The UV Index today starts low, with maximum values reaching 0 by 7:00 AM. As the sun rises, it gradually climbs to 1 at 8:00 AM and stays steady until 9:00 AM. By 10:00 AM, the index jumps to 2, marking the onset of more direct sunlight. The UV exposure peaks at 4 from 12:00 PM to 14:00 PM, signaling a critical time for sun protection. Following this peak, it dips back to 2 at 15:00 PM before easing further to 1 by 16:00 PM. Finally, the day wraps up with 0 UV exposure by 19:00 PM, making the late afternoon a much safer time for outdoor activities. Don't forget to apply sunscreen during the midday hours!
| Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07:00 | 0 | low | 45 min |
| 08:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 09:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 10:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 11:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 12:00 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
| 13:00 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
| 14:00 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
| 15:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 16:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 17:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 18:00 | 0 | low | 45 min |
| 19:00 | 0 | low | 45 min |
Throughout the year, UV Index values demonstrate significant seasonal changes, with the highest risks occurring during winter months. January and December register an extreme UV Index of 14, indicating a burn time of just 10 minutes. February follows closely with a UV Index of 13. The transition into spring sees a decrease, with March's Index at 10 (very high, 15 min), but as we move to April and May, values drop to 6 (high) and 4 (moderate) respectively. The summer months of June, July, and August present a moderate UV Index, ranging from 3 to 5 with a burn time of 30 minutes. In the fall, September and October see the UV Index rise again, peaking at 7 (high) in September and returning to 10 (very high) in October. November also returns to an extreme level with a UV Index of 12. Visitors and residents are advised to take special care during the high-risk months of January, February, March, November, and December, ensuring proper sun protection measures such as wearing sunscreen, hats, and protective clothing when exposed to sunlight, especially during peak hours.
UV Risk Categories
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Pucon | 14 | 13 | 10 | 6 | 4 | 3 | 3 | 5 | 7 | 10 | 12 | 14 |
| 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 |