UV Index in Copiapo, Chile

Last updated: August 1, 2025

In Copiapó, Chile, awareness of the UV Index is crucial for protecting your skin and overall health. The UV levels in this sun-drenched region, characterized by its BWk climate—a semi-arid environment—can pose significant risks, particularly during peak hours. With UV Index ranging from a mild 1 at 8 AM to a striking 6 at noon, understanding these levels is essential for preventing sunburn and long-term skin damage. By staying informed about UV exposure, residents and visitors can enjoy the vibrant outdoor lifestyle of Copiapó while prioritizing their skin health and safety.

Hourly UV Index in Copiapo

The UV Index throughout the day presents a dynamic picture of sun exposure. Starting from a maximum of 0 at 7:00 AM, the index gradually climbs, reaching 1 by 8:00 AM and reaching the moderate threshold of 3 by 10:00 AM. The peak UV exposure occurs between 12:00 PM and 1:00 PM, with levels hitting 6—a time to ensure adequate sunscreen application! As the afternoon progresses, the index gradually declines; it drops to 4 by 3:00 PM and then further decreases to 1 by 6:00 PM, before settling back to 0 at 7:00 PM. This pattern serves as a reminder to enjoy the sun with caution during peak hours!

Average solar exposure data for the current time of the year. Actual values may vary and depend on many factors, such as cloud cover, vegetation cover, surface type, etc.
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	7	high	25 min
13:00	8	very high	15 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

Monthly UV Index Trends in Copiapo

Throughout the year, the UV Index displays significant seasonal fluctuations, with the highest risk of harmful UV exposure occurring during the winter and early spring months. January, February, and March all have extreme UV levels (Index 16, 15, and 13 respectively) with a burn time of just 10 minutes. Following this intensity, April has a very high UV Index of 10, but the burn time extends to 15 minutes. As we move into summer, UV exposure decreases slightly, peaking again in August (very high, Index 8) and September (very high, Index 10) before dipping in the fall. By the year’s end, extreme levels return in October and November (16 and 15), prompting caution. Visitors and residents should be advised to take necessary precautions — wear protective clothing, use sunscreen, and limit sun exposure, especially during these high-risk months to protect their skin from the harmful effects of UV radiation.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Copiapo, Chile

The monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) represents the highest UV radiation level recorded each month in Copiapo. It measures the strength of ultraviolet radiation from the sun and helps assess the risk of sunburn and UV-related health issues.

Data source: Statistical UV Index data for Copiapo, based on information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

UV Risk Categories

Extreme (11+): Avoid the sun, stay in shade.
Very High (8-10): Limit sun exposure.
High (6-7): Use SPF 30+ and protective clothing.
Moderate (3-5): Midday shade recommended.
Low (0-2): No protection needed.

Compare Copiapo UV Index with Other Chile Cities

The table above highlights how UV exposure in Copiapo compares to other major locations across Chile. This comparison helps travelers and residents better understand regional sun intensity and plan outdoor activities with sun safety in mind.

Copiapo's solar exposure compared to other cities in Chile. Generated using Copernicus Atmosphere Monitoring Service information.
	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
Copiapo	16	15	13	10	7	5	6	8	10	13	15	16
Antofagasta UVI	15	15	13	10	8	6	7	9	11	14	15	15