Last updated: July 2, 2025
In Vicuna, Chile, awareness of the UV Index is crucial for protecting your skin and maintaining overall health. Understanding UV levels helps prevent sunburn and reduces the risk of long-term skin issues, especially in a region where sun exposure can be intense. Located in a BSk climate zone, Vicuna experiences clear skies and elevated UV levels during peak hours—especially around noon when the UV Index can reach as high as 6. Staying informed about the daily UV forecast enables locals and visitors alike to enjoy the beautiful sun while taking the necessary precautions to safeguard their skin.
The UV Index over the course of the day showcases a dynamic pattern of sun exposure. Starting off at a low 0 at 07:00, the intensity gradually ramps up, reaching 1 by 08:00 and 09:00. The sun's strength peaks around 12:00 and 13:00 with a notable 6, indicating a high potential for skin damage without protection. As the afternoon progresses, the index dips to 5 at 14:00, then declines steadily to a gentle 1 by 17:00. The evening brings relief, as the UV Index returns to 0 after 18:00. Overall, this data underscores the importance of sun safety, especially during midday when UV levels rise significantly.
| 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 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 11:00 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
| 12:00 | 6 | high | 25 min |
| 13:00 | 6 | high | 25 min |
| 14:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 15:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 16:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 17:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 18:00 | 0 | low | 45 min |
| 19:00 | 0 | low | 45 min |
The UV Index shows significant seasonal variations in sun exposure, with the highest values occurring in winter and late fall. January and February are particularly concerning, both exhibiting an extreme UV Index of 16, with a burn time of just 10 minutes. March also remains high at 13, categorized as extreme. Moving into April, the Index drops slightly to 10 (very high), and continues to decline through June at 5 (moderate), before rising again in July and August to 6 and 7 respectively (both high). The Index then spikes again in September at 10 (very high) before hitting 12 (extreme) in October and 15 (extreme) in November, and returning to 16 in December. Residents and visitors should take extra precautions during high-risk months, particularly mid-winter and late fall, ensuring adequate sun protection measures are in place to prevent skin damage. Regularly applying sunscreen, wearing protective clothing, and limiting exposure during peak hours are highly advised throughout the year.
UV Risk Categories
| 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 |
| Vicuna | 16 | 14 | 13 | 10 | 7 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 10 | 12 | 15 | 16 |
| Antofagasta UVI | 15 | 15 | 13 | 10 | 8 | 6 | 7 | 9 | 11 | 14 | 15 | 15 |