UV Index in Ovalle, Chile

Last updated: June 2, 2025

Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents of Ovalle, Chile, where the sun shines brightly in a BSk climate. The UV levels can vary throughout the day, peaking at a moderate level of 4 between noon and 2 PM, highlighting the importance of awareness to prevent sunburn and safeguard skin health. Regularly monitoring UV exposure not only helps in enjoying the outdoors safely but also minimizes the risk of longer-term skin damage. With Ovalle's typical sunny days, understanding these UV levels is essential for everyone looking to protect their health while soaking up the sun.

Hourly UV Index in Ovalle

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 Ovalle

The UV Index experiences significant fluctuations throughout the year, with the highest risk months occurring from January to March and October to November, where it reaches extreme levels of 14 to 15, and a burn time of just 10 minutes. Spring sees a decrease in risk, with April and May transitioning to very high and high categories, allowing slightly longer burn times of 15 to 25 minutes. The summer months of June and July offer moderate exposure with a UV Index of 4 to 5 and burn times up to 30 minutes. As autumn arrives in September, UV levels rise again to very high, returning to cautionary levels by October. It is crucial for visitors and residents to take protective measures during peak UV months, such as wearing sunscreen, protective clothing, and seeking shade, especially during the extreme exposure periods when burn times are significantly shorter.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Ovalle, Chile

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

The table above highlights how UV exposure in Ovalle 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.

Ovalle'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
Ovalle	15	14	12	9	6	4	5	6	9	12	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