Last updated: June 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index in Puerto Natales, Chile, is crucial for safeguarding your skin health and preventing sunburn. With the region's unique Cfc climate, residents and visitors alike should be aware of fluctuating UV levels, especially during peak hours. While the UV Index typically remains low in the morning and late afternoon, it's essential to recognize that even a moderate level can pose risks to skin health. By keeping track of UV exposure and taking preventive measures, you can enjoy the stunning landscapes of Puerto Natales while protecting yourself from the sun's harmful rays.
Throughout the day, the UV Index showed a gradual rise, peaking during the midday hours. From 07:00 to 09:00, the index remained at a safe 0, providing a perfect time for morning activities without the worry of UV exposure. As the sun climbed higher, the index increased to 1 from 10:00 through 17:00, indicating a low level of UV radiation, suitable for outdoor enjoyment with minimal protection. However, as the day drew to a close, the UV Index dipped back to 0 by 18:00, signaling a retreat of sunlight and a decrease in UV intensity. Overall, it was a day where individuals could bask in the sun's warmth without significant risk, especially during the midday stretch.
| Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07:00 | 0 | low | 45 min |
| 08:00 | 0 | low | 45 min |
| 09:00 | 0 | low | 45 min |
| 10:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 11:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 12:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 13:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 14:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 15:00 | 1 | 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 fluctuate significantly, indicating varying risks for sun exposure. January and November are notably high-risk months with an UV Index of 11 and 12, respectively, categorized as extreme, where individuals can burn in just 10 minutes. February follows closely with a very high index of 10, resulting in a burn time of just 15 minutes. As spring arrives in March, the risk lowers to high with a UV Index of 7 and a burn time of 25 minutes. As the summer months set in, the UV Index decreases to low levels in June and July, allowing a more extended burn time of 45 minutes. Conversely, October and December see a resurgence in UV levels, pushing back into the very high and extreme categories, warranting caution. Residents and visitors should protect themselves during high-risk months by using sunscreen, wearing protective clothing, and seeking shade when the sun is at its peak.
UV Risk Categories
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Puerto Natales | 11 | 10 | 7 | 4 | 2 | 1 | 2 | 4 | 4 | 8 | 12 | 11 |
| 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 |