UV Index in Vallenar, Chile

Last updated: August 1, 2025

Understanding the UV Index in Vallenar, Chile, is crucial for safeguarding your skin and overall health. With the region's BWk climate, characterized by hot, dry conditions, UV exposure can peak around midday, presenting risks like sunburn and long-term skin damage. Being informed about UV levels enables residents and visitors alike to take proactive measures against harmful rays, ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience under the sun. As the UV Index rises to 6 by 1 PM, it's essential to seek shade, wear protective clothing, and apply sunscreen to keep your skin healthy and prevent sunburn.

Hourly UV Index in Vallenar

The UV Index for the day exhibits a clear progression, starting from a minimal level of 0 at 07:00. As the sun climbs higher, the index gradually increases, reaching a moderate 3 by 10:00 and peaking at a healthy level of 6 around 13:00. This midday surge highlights the importance of sun protection, as the UV exposure is at its strongest. Following peak hours, the index sees a notable decline, returning to 3 by 15:00 and tapering off to 1 by 18:00, before dropping back to 0 after sunset at 19:00. Be sure to plan outdoor activities accordingly to enjoy the sun safely!

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	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

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