Last updated: May 3, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors in Putre, Chile, where high-altitude exposure amplifies risks associated with UV radiation. Knowing the daily UV levels helps in preventing sunburn and maintaining skin health, essential for enjoying the vibrant outdoor lifestyle this region offers. Given Putre's BWk climate, characterized by its dry conditions and elevated sun exposure, it's important to be vigilant, especially during peak hours when the UV Index can reach a staggering 11 at noon. Being aware of these levels allows you to take the necessary precautions, ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience under the Andean sun.
The UV Index for the day shows a dramatic rise in solar intensity as the hours unfold. Beginning in the early morning, the index starts low at 1 at 07:00 and 08:00, ensuring a safe environment for outdoor activities. However, as the sun climbs, it peaks spectacularly at 11 between 12:00 and 13:00, urging caution for those exposed to the sun's rays. This period of high exposure is flanked by a decrease in the afternoon, with values dropping to 6 at 15:00, and tapering off to a safe low of 0 by evening. Remember, while the sun’s warmth is inviting, peak hours demand protective measures to shield against potential skin damage!
| 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 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
| 12:00 | 11 | extreme | 10 min |
| 13:00 | 11 | extreme | 10 min |
| 14:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 15:00 | 6 | high | 25 min |
| 16:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 17:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 18:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 19:00 | 0 | low | 45 min |
The UV Index data reveals extremely high levels of ultraviolet radiation from January through April, maintaining a severe UV Index of 18 for several months, which corresponds to a burn time of just 10 minutes. As the year progresses into May, there is a slight decrease to an index of 12, but the risk remains high. By June, the index dips to 9, categorized as very high, allowing for a slightly longer burn time of 15 minutes. However, the UV Index rises again throughout July and August, peaking at 13 in August before tapering off in September to 16 and then sharply reaching back to 18 by October through January. Residents and visitors should exercise extreme caution during these high-risk months, particularly from January through April and again in October and November, limiting direct sun exposure and utilizing adequate sun protection such as sunscreen, hats, and protective clothing to safeguard against sunburn and long-term skin damage.
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 |
| Putre | 18 | 18 | 17 | 15 | 12 | 9 | 11 | 13 | 16 | 18 | 18 | 18 |