Last updated: July 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index in Pucon, Chile is crucial for safeguarding your skin and promoting overall health. Given Pucon's temperate oceanic climate, the risk of UV exposure can vary, especially during midday hours when the index peaks. With UV levels reaching as high as 3 between 12 PM and 2 PM, it's essential to be aware of these fluctuations to prevent sunburn and long-term skin damage. By monitoring the UV Index, you can make informed decisions about sun protection and enjoy the breathtaking natural beauty of Pucon while keeping your skin safe.
Today, the UV Index follows a gradually rising trend, reaching its peak during the midday hours. Starting the day at a minimum of 0 at 07:00, the index climbs to 1 by 08:00 and holds steady until 11:00, where it rises to 2. The sun is at its most intense from 12:00 to 14:00, hitting 3, reminding us to be mindful of sun exposure during these hours. As the afternoon wanes, the index gradually declines to 2 at 15:00, then further dips to 1 by 16:00, before returning to a safe 0 by evening. This gradual fluctuation serves as a reminder to enjoy the sunshine while taking precautions as the day unfolds!
| 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 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 11:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 12:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 13:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 14:00 | 3 | 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 |