UV Index in Valparaiso, Chile

Last updated: June 2, 2025

Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors in Valparaiso, Chile, where the sun's intensity can be surprisingly high, especially during peak hours. Awareness of UV levels not only helps in preventing painful sunburns but also plays a vital role in maintaining long-term skin health. In this coastal city, characterized by its Mediterranean Csb climate, the risks associated with UV exposure can vary throughout the day, with midday levels reaching up to 4. Staying informed about these fluctuations empowers you to enjoy the beautiful outdoors while protecting your skin from the harmful effects of ultraviolet radiation.

Hourly UV Index in Valparaiso

The UV Index for today paints a clear picture of sun intensity throughout the hours. Starting from a low of 0 at 07:00, the day gradually warms up, reaching 1 by 08:00 and maintaining that level until 09:00. As the sun climbs higher, we see a rise to 2 at 10:00 and peaking at 4 by 13:00—the most critical time for sun exposure. After this midday high, the index dips slightly to 3 between 14:00 and 12:00, before gradually decreasing towards the evening, arriving back at 0 by 19:00. Remember to protect your skin during the peak hours when the UV Index hits its highest levels!

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	3	moderate	30 min
12:00	3	moderate	30 min
13:00	4	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 Valparaiso

Throughout the year, the UV Index exhibits significant seasonal variations, with extreme levels observed from January to March, as well as in October to December, where the burn time is a mere 10 minutes. April marks a transition to a very high exposure category with a burn time of 15 minutes. From May to July, the index drops to a moderate level, allowing for longer exposure times of 30 minutes. However, the index rises again in August and September, returning to high and very high categories, respectively. Visitors and residents are strongly advised to take precautions during the high-risk months of January to March, October to December, and during April and September when the UV exposure can still be substantial. Always wear protective clothing, use sunscreen, and seek shade whenever possible to mitigate the risks associated with extreme UV radiation.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Valparaiso, Chile

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

The table above highlights how UV exposure in Valparaiso 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.

Valparaiso'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 UVI	14	12	11	7	5	3	4	6	8	11	12	14
Valparaiso	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