UV Index in Rancagua, Chile

Last updated: June 2, 2025

Understanding the UV Index in Rancagua, Chile is essential for protecting your skin and overall health. With varying levels of UV exposure throughout the day, being aware of these indices can help you prevent sunburn and long-term skin damage. Rancagua's Mediterranean climate typically offers plenty of sunshine, particularly during the peak hours, when UV levels can reach a moderate to high range. Knowledge of the UV Index not only ensures safe outdoor activities but also promotes conscious sun protection habits among residents and visitors alike.

Hourly UV Index in Rancagua

The UV Index for today paints a clear picture of sun intensity throughout the hours. Starting from a low of 0 at 07:00, the day gradually warms up, reaching 1 by 08:00 and maintaining that level until 09:00. As the sun climbs higher, we see a rise to 2 at 10:00 and peaking at 4 by 13:00—the most critical time for sun exposure. After this midday high, the index dips slightly to 3 between 14:00 and 12:00, before gradually decreasing towards the evening, arriving back at 0 by 19:00. Remember to protect your skin during the peak hours when the UV Index hits its highest levels!

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	3	moderate	30 min
13:00	4	moderate	30 min
14:00	3	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 Rancagua

The UV Index exhibits significant seasonal fluctuations, with January, February, March, October, November, and December classified as high-risk months due to extreme levels, where a mere 10 minutes of exposure can lead to sunburn. April transitions to very high exposure with a 15-minute burn time, while May and June see a drop to moderate levels, allowing for safer exposure of 30 minutes. As summer progresses, July maintains a moderate index, but the risk increases again in August with a high category and a burn time of 25 minutes. September returns to very high levels, emphasizing caution. Visitors and residents should exercise heightened vigilance during these high-risk months by applying sunscreen, wearing protective clothing, and seeking shade, particularly from late fall through early spring when UV exposure remains dangerously high.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Rancagua, Chile

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

The table above highlights how UV exposure in Rancagua 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.

Rancagua'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
Rancagua	14	13	11	8	5	4	4	6	8	11	13	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