Last updated: July 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is essential for everyone living in or visiting Puerto Varas, Chile, where the beauty of the lakes and mountains can often lead to extended time outdoors. The UV Index provides crucial information about the intensity of ultraviolet radiation on a given day, helping you take proactive steps to protect against sunburn and maintain skin health. In this charming town, with its Cfb climate, residents and tourists alike can expect varying UV levels throughout the day, peaking during midday hours—making it vital to remain vigilant and informed about UV exposure risks to enjoy the stunning landscapes safely.
Throughout the day, the UV Index presents a gradual increase, peaking in the early afternoon. From a safe 0 at 07:00 and 08:00, it rises to 3 by 13:00, indicating moderate UV exposure. The index then gently declines, returning to 2 at 14:00 and 1 by 16:00, before dropping back to 0 by 18:00. For those planning outdoor activities, aim for the late morning to early afternoon when the UV index reaches its highest, but remember to take necessary precautions to protect your skin from potential harm! 🌞
Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
---|---|---|---|
07:00 | 0 | low | 45 min |
08:00 | 0 | low | 45 min |
09:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
10:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
11:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
12:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
13:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
14:00 | 2 | low | 45 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 |
Throughout the year, the UV Index exhibits substantial seasonal variations, with the highest values occurring during the winter and late fall. Notably, January and February are marked by extreme exposure categories, with a UV Index of 14 and 12, indicating a burn time of just 10 minutes. The high-risk months for UV exposure are November and December, with indexes of 12 and 13, respectively, also categorized as extreme. Visitors and residents should exercise caution during these months, ensuring they protect their skin from harmful UV rays by wearing protective clothing, using sunscreen, and limiting sun exposure. In contrast, the UV Index drops significantly from June to August, where it reaches moderate levels, suggesting a lower risk for sunburn, with burn times extending to 30-45 minutes. As such, while year-round protection is advised, extra vigilance is essential during the highest UV months.
UV Risk Categories
Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Puerto Varas | 14 | 12 | 9 | 6 | 4 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 6 | 9 | 12 | 13 |
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 |
Antofagasta UVI | 15 | 15 | 13 | 10 | 8 | 6 | 7 | 9 | 11 | 14 | 15 | 15 |