Last updated: June 2, 2025
In Valdivia, Chile, staying informed about the UV Index is essential for safeguarding your skin and overall health. Understanding UV levels helps in preventing sunburn and reducing long-term skin damage, especially in a region where the climate—classified as Cfb—offers a mix of cool and temperate conditions. Despite the lush surroundings, Valdivia residents should be aware that UV exposure can still pose risks, particularly during midday hours when indices peak at 3. Equip yourself with knowledge about daily UV levels to enjoy the sun 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, 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 | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Valdivia | 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 |