Last updated: June 2, 2025
In Cuya, Chile, being aware of the UV Index is essential for protecting your skin and overall health. Understanding UV levels helps you take proactive measures against sunburn and long-term skin damage, particularly in a region characterized by a BWk climate, where UV exposure can spike dramatically throughout the day. With midday UV Index values reaching as high as 7, it's crucial for residents and visitors alike to stay informed and safeguard their skin against the risks associated with this intense sunlight. By knowing when the UV Index is elevated, you can enjoy the beautiful Cuya climate while ensuring your health remains a top priority.
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 |
Throughout the year, UV Index values reflect significant seasonal variations, with extreme exposure levels dominating from January through April and again in September, October, and November. The highest risk months are January, February, and March, when the UV Index consistently reaches 15, indicating a 10-minute burn time. As we move into May and June, the UV Index decreases to 9 and 7 respectively, signaling a shift to very high and high exposure categories. July and August remain very high at 8 and 10, with burn times extending to 15 minutes. It is crucial for visitors and residents alike to take precautions during these high-risk months, including seeking shade, wearing protective clothing, and applying broad-spectrum sunscreen regularly. Stay vigilant, as UV radiation can cause skin damage even on overcast days.
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 |
| Cuya | 15 | 15 | 13 | 11 | 9 | 7 | 8 | 10 | 12 | 14 | 15 | 15 |