UV Index in Santiago, Chile

Last updated: June 2, 2025

Understanding the UV Index in Santiago, Chile, is essential for protecting your skin and maintaining overall health in the region's unique climate. With its moderate Mediterranean atmosphere, Santiago experiences varying UV levels throughout the day, especially peaking around midday when the risk of sunburn rises. Awareness of these UV fluctuations—ranging from a low of 0 in the morning to a high of 3 during the afternoon—can aid in making informed choices about sun protection. By staying informed, you can enjoy the vibrant outdoors while safeguarding your skin's health against harmful UV exposure.

Hourly UV Index in Santiago

The UV Index starts low at 07:00, peaking at just 0 before gradually rising. By 10:00, it climbs to 2, indicating a moderate level of UV exposure. The sun reaches its zenith from 12:00 to 14:00, where the UV Index holds a steady 3, suggesting that precautions like sunscreen and protective clothing are advisable. As the afternoon wanes, 15:00 sees a slight drop back to 2. Post 16:00, the UV levels decline further, returning to 1 by 17:00 and finally 0 again after 18:00. Overall, this early day provides a manageable UV exposure, but midday vigilance is key for outdoor activities!

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	2	low	45 min
12:00	3	moderate	30 min
13:00	3	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 Santiago

Throughout the year, the UV Index fluctuates significantly, indicating varying levels of sun exposure risk. The highest risk months for UV exposure are January, February, March, October, November, and December, each with a UV Index of 12 to 14 and categorized as extreme, meaning that unprotected skin can burn within just 10 minutes. In contrast, April and August fall under the high category with an index of 7 and 6, respectively, allowing a slightly longer burn time of 25 minutes. From May to July, the risk drops to moderate levels (UV Index 5 to 4), with burn times extending up to 30 minutes. Residents and visitors are strongly advised to take precautions during high-risk months, such as seeking shade, wearing protective clothing, and applying broad-spectrum sunscreen to minimize the effects of harmful UV radiation.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Santiago, Chile

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

The table above highlights how UV exposure in Santiago 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.

Santiago'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	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