UV Index in Vallenar, Chile

Last updated: June 2, 2025

Understanding the UV Index in Vallenar, Chile is crucial for safeguarding your skin and overall health. With its BWk climate characterized by arid conditions and plenty of sunlight, the UV levels can peak, particularly between 11 AM and 1 PM when they reach a level 5, indicating moderate exposure risk. Being aware of these UV levels helps prevent sunburns and long-term skin damage, ensuring you enjoy the beautiful Chilean outdoors safely. Stay informed and protect yourself from the sun’s harmful rays while embracing Vallenar's vibrant climate.

Hourly UV Index in Vallenar

The UV Index data for the day reveals a progressive ascent in solar intensity, starting from a peaceful 0 at 07:00. As the sun rises higher in the sky, it peaks at 5 between 12:00 and 13:00, indicating a moderate risk for sun exposure. 11:00 and 10:00 see values of 4 and 2 respectively, signaling an increasing need for sun safety measures. As the afternoon unfolds, readings gently descend, dropping back to 3 by 15:00 and tapering to 0 after 18:00. Overall, it’s a day where vigilance is key during the midday hours, while mornings and evenings offer a respite from harmful rays.

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	0	low	45 min
08:00	1	low	45 min
09:00	1	low	45 min
10:00	2	low	45 min
11:00	4	moderate	30 min
12:00	5	moderate	30 min
13:00	5	moderate	30 min
14:00	4	moderate	30 min
15:00	3	moderate	30 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

Monthly UV Index Trends in Vallenar

Throughout the year, UV exposure varies significantly, with the highest risk months occurring from January to March and again in October to November. During these months, the UV Index reaches extreme levels, peaking at 16 in January and maintaining high values of 14 in February and November. Burn times are notably short, with only 10 minutes of unprotected exposure leading to potential skin damage. In contrast, April and September are categorized as very high, with a UV Index of 10 and 9, respectively, allowing for burn times of 15 minutes. From May to August, UV levels decrease somewhat, but still present risks categorized as high, with exposure times of 25 to 30 minutes. Visitors and residents are advised to take appropriate sun protection measures during the extreme and very high months, including wearing protective clothing, applying broad-spectrum sunscreen, and seeking shade whenever possible to minimize the risk of skin damage.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Vallenar, Chile

The monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) represents the highest UV radiation level recorded each month in Vallenar. 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 Vallenar, 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 Vallenar UV Index with Other Chile Cities

The table above highlights how UV exposure in Vallenar 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.

Vallenar'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
Vallenar	16	14	13	10	7	5	6	7	9	13	14	15
Antofagasta UVI	15	15	13	10	8	6	7	9	11	14	15	15