Last updated: May 3, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors in Cartagena, Chile, where the sun's rays can be surprisingly intense even during the cooler months. With a climate characterized by mild summers and cool winters, outdoor activities are popular, making it essential to recognize daily UV levels to protect your skin health and prevent painful sunburn. Typically, peak UV exposure occurs around midday when the index climbs to levels 5, highlighting the need for sun protection strategies in this beautiful coastal town. Stay informed and enjoy the sun safely!
The UV Index for today paints a story of a steadily rising sun, reaching its peak in the early afternoon. Starting at 0 at 7 AM, the index climbs cautiously to 1 by 8 AM and remains at this level until 10 AM. As the day progresses, the UV intensity spikes to 4 by 11 AM and reaches its maximum of 5 at both 12 PM and 1 PM, urging sunseekers to apply that sunscreen! The afternoon sees a gradual decline, with the UV Index dipping back to 4 at 2 PM, then 3 at 3 PM, falling further to 2 by 4 PM. As evening approaches, the UV levels drop to 1 by 5 PM, finally settling back to 0 as the sun sets. Stay sun-safe during those peak 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 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 11:00 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
| 12:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 13:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 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 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 |