Last updated: August 1, 2025
In Chanaral, Chile, awareness of the UV Index is essential for protecting your skin from harmful radiation. With a climate zone classified as BWk, the region experiences varying levels of UV exposure throughout the day, often peaking at an index of 7 between 1 PM and 2 PM. Understanding these UV levels is crucial for preventing sunburn and maintaining long-term skin health. As you enjoy the stunning landscapes of Chanaral, being mindful of the UV Index can help you stay safe under the sun and fully enjoy all that this beautiful area has to offer.
As the sun rises, the UV Index begins its ascent, peaking at 7 between 1 PM and 2 PM, indicating a substantial risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure. The day starts off slowly, with a 0 at 7 AM, climbing to a mild 1 by 8 AM. By 11 AM, the index hits 5, urging cautious sunbathing. Anticipate the highest values around noon, when it reaches 6, perfect for seeking shade or applying sunscreen. The afternoon sees a slight decline, dropping to 4 at 3 PM, before settling back down to a meager 1 by 5 PM and fading to 0 once again as the sun sets at 7 PM. Stay vigilant throughout your day; from late morning to early afternoon, it’s all about protecting your skin!
| Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07:00 | 1 | 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 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
| 13:00 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
| 14:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 15:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 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 |
Throughout the year, UV index levels exhibit significant seasonal changes, with January and December seeing an extreme UV index of 16, and February and March closely following at 15 and 13, respectively, all requiring consistent protection with a burn time of just 10 minutes. The UV index slightly decreases in April to 11 but maintains an extreme classification. As we move into the summer months, particularly May to July, the index lowers to a high category, with burn times extending to 25 minutes, although August and September see a rebound to very high levels at 8 and 10, necessitating vigilant sun safety measures with burn times of 15 minutes. The year rounds out with an increase back to extreme levels in October and November, reinforcing the need for sun protection even in the cooler months. Visitors and residents should be particularly cautious between January and April, as well as October and November, as these months pose the highest risk for UV exposure, emphasizing the importance of daily sun safety practices year-round.
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 |
| Chanaral | 16 | 15 | 13 | 11 | 7 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 10 | 13 | 15 | 16 |
| Antofagasta UVI | 15 | 15 | 13 | 10 | 8 | 6 | 7 | 9 | 11 | 14 | 15 | 15 |