UV Index in Coquimbo, Chile

Last updated: June 2, 2025

Understanding the UV Index in Coquimbo, Chile is essential for protecting your skin and overall health. With its BWk climate, characterized by warm, dry summers, awareness of UV levels becomes crucial for preventing sunburn and long-term skin damage. During peak hours, particularly from 11:00 AM to 2:00 PM, UV indices can reach as high as 4, indicating moderate exposure risk. By staying informed about the UV index, residents and visitors alike can make better decisions to enjoy Coquimbo’s beautiful outdoor scenery safely, ensuring that fun in the sun doesn’t come at the expense of skin health.

Hourly UV Index in Coquimbo

The UV Index today starts low, with maximum values reaching 0 by 7:00 AM. As the sun rises, it gradually climbs to 1 at 8:00 AM and stays steady until 9:00 AM. By 10:00 AM, the index jumps to 2, marking the onset of more direct sunlight. The UV exposure peaks at 4 from 12:00 PM to 14:00 PM, signaling a critical time for sun protection. Following this peak, it dips back to 2 at 15:00 PM before easing further to 1 by 16:00 PM. Finally, the day wraps up with 0 UV exposure by 19:00 PM, making the late afternoon a much safer time for outdoor activities. Don't forget to apply sunscreen during the midday 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	0	low	45 min
08:00	1	low	45 min
09:00	1	low	45 min
10:00	2	low	45 min
11:00	3	moderate	30 min
12:00	4	moderate	30 min
13:00	4	moderate	30 min
14:00	4	moderate	30 min
15:00	2	low	45 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 Coquimbo

Throughout the year, UV Index levels fluctuate significantly, with the highest readings occurring from January to March, where the UV Index reaches up to 15, classified as extreme, with a burn time of only 10 minutes. October and November also present high-risk conditions with extreme values of 14 and 15, respectively. Conversely, the summer months from June to August see a decline in UV intensity, averaging between 4 and 6, classified as moderate to high, allowing for longer safe exposure times of 25 to 30 minutes. Visitors and residents are advised to take necessary precautions during the high-risk months of January, February, March, October, and November, such as wearing protective clothing, applying sunscreen frequently, and seeking shade when outdoors.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Coquimbo, Chile

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

The table above highlights how UV exposure in Coquimbo 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.

Coquimbo'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
Coquimbo	15	14	12	9	6	4	5	6	9	11	14	15
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