Last updated: June 2, 2025
In Cartagena, Chile, being aware of the UV Index is crucial for safeguarding your skin against harmful sun exposure. Understanding UV levels helps prevent sunburn, reduces the risk of skin damage, and promotes overall skin health. Nestled in a Csb climate zone, Cartagena experiences distinct seasonal changes, yet the midday sun can bring elevated UV levels, particularly between 11:00 AM and 2:00 PM when the index peaks at 3. By staying informed about the UV Index, you can take simple steps to protect yourself and enjoy the beautiful coastal surroundings safely.
The UV Index throughout the day reveals a gradual increase in sun intensity, peaking mid-afternoon. Starting at 0 at 07:00, the index rises to 1 by 08:00 and remains moderate at 1 for the following hour. As the sun ascends, the intensity reaches 2 by 10:00, climbing further to 3 at 11:00, sustaining this level until 14:00. After this peak, a gentle decline begins, with the index dropping to 2 at 15:00, and gradually easing back to 1 by 17:00, before retreating to 0 by 18:00. For anyone spending time outdoors, the late morning to early afternoon presents the highest UV exposure; thus, caution and sun protection are highly advisable during these hours.
| 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 | 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 |
The UV index exhibits significant seasonal variation, with extreme levels persisting from January to March and returning in October to November, highlighting these months as high-risk periods for skin damage, with a rapid burn time of just 10 minutes. The spring month of April marks a transition to a very high category with a slightly increased burn time of 15 minutes before tapering to moderate levels in May through July, where individuals can safely enjoy up to 30 minutes of sun exposure. However, by August, UV levels rise to high, necessitating 25 minutes of careful exposure. In September, the risk escalates again to very high before returning to extreme levels by late autumn. Residents and visitors should take precautions during high-risk months by applying sunscreen, wearing protective clothing, and seeking shade during peak sun hours to minimize UV-related health risks.
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 |
| Cartagena | 14 | 13 | 11 | 8 | 5 | 3 | 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 |