Last updated: May 3, 2025
Understanding the UV Index in Puente Alto, Chile is essential for protecting yourself from harmful ultraviolet radiation. With its Csb climate, this region experiences fluctuating UV levels throughout the day, peaking around midday. Awareness of these levels is crucial to prevent sunburn and maintain skin health, especially during the summer months when UV exposure risks increase significantly. By being informed about the UV Index—ranging from a safe 1 early in the morning to a high of 6 during peak hours—you can take proactive measures to enjoy the sun responsibly, safeguarding your skin from potential damage.
As the sun rises, the UV Index remains low at 0 by 07:00, perfect for early risers. However, a gentle increase begins at 08:00, reaching 1 by the late morning. The real action starts at 10:00, when the index climbs to 3, peaking at 6 from 12:00 to 13:00. This midday high signals the time to take precautions, as the sun's rays are strongest. Despite a gradual decrease to 4 by 14:00, the UV intensity remains noticeable, dropping further to 3 at 15:00. By 16:00, it retreats to 2, then diminishes swiftly to 1 at 17:00 and back to 0 by 18:00. As night falls, the UV threat dissipates, marking a safe end to a day under the sun.
Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
---|---|---|---|
07:00 | 0 | low | 45 min |
08:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
09:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
10:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
11:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
12:00 | 6 | high | 25 min |
13:00 | 6 | high | 25 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 | 0 | low | 45 min |
19:00 | 0 | low | 45 min |
The UV Index demonstrates significant seasonal changes, with extreme readings from January to March and again in September through November, indicating a heightened risk for sunburn during these months. Notably, January and December both reach an index of 15, while February and November register 14, making them the highest-risk months. As the year progresses, April and August are classified as very high (UV index 8), while May and July are categorized as high (UV index 6). During periods of extreme and very high exposure, burn times are dangerously short—only 10 to 15 minutes—which underscores the necessity for vigilant sun protection. Residents and visitors are strongly advised to adopt protective measures, including wearing sunscreen, hats, and UV-blocking clothing, particularly during the peak months to mitigate the risks associated with high UV exposure.
UV Risk Categories
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 |
Puente Alto | 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 |