Last updated: August 1, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors in Las Gaviotas, Chile, where the temperate Cfb climate can sometimes mask the sun's intensity. With peak UV levels reaching 3 from late morning to early afternoon, being aware of these fluctuations is essential for sunburn prevention and overall skin health. Even in a coastal haven, overexposure can lead to long-term damage. Stay informed about local UV levels to protect yourself while enjoying all the sunny moments Las Gaviotas has to offer!
Today, the UV Index follows a gradually rising trend, reaching its peak during the midday hours. Starting the day at a minimum of 0 at 07:00, the index climbs to 1 by 08:00 and holds steady until 11:00, where it rises to 2. The sun is at its most intense from 12:00 to 14:00, hitting 3, reminding us to be mindful of sun exposure during these hours. As the afternoon wanes, the index gradually declines to 2 at 15:00, then further dips to 1 by 16:00, before returning to a safe 0 by evening. This gradual fluctuation serves as a reminder to enjoy the sunshine while taking precautions as the day unfolds!
| 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 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
| 12:00 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
| 13:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 14:00 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
| 15:00 | 3 | 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 |
Throughout the year, UV Index levels exhibit significant seasonal fluctuations. January and December experience the highest risk, with UV Index values reaching 14, classified as extreme, necessitating a burn time as short as 10 minutes. February also falls into this category with an index of 13. As spring approaches, March presents a notable decrease to a UV Index of 10 (very high), allowing a slightly longer burn time of 15 minutes. By April, the index drops to 6 (high), permitting a burn time of 25 minutes; however, it remains essential to stay protected during this period. May through July, you can anticipate moderate levels of UV exposure, with indices ranging from 3 to 5 and corresponding burn times of 30 minutes. The risk begins to heighten again in September (high, UV Index 7) and continues into October (very high, UV Index 9). November, with a return to an extreme category (UV Index 12), highlights a critical time for sun safety. Residents and visitors should take extra precautions, particularly from November to March, wearing sunscreen and protective clothing, to mitigate potential skin damage from high UV exposure.
UV Risk Categories
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Las Gaviotas | 14 | 13 | 10 | 6 | 4 | 3 | 3 | 5 | 7 | 9 | 12 | 14 |
| 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 |