Last updated: August 1, 2025
In Chapicuy, Uruguay, staying informed about the UV Index is crucial for maintaining your skin health and preventing sunburn. Understanding UV levels helps residents and visitors alike to make informed decisions about sun exposure, especially during the summer months when UV radiation can peak. With a temperate Cfa climate, Chapicuy experiences varying UV exposure, notably reaching levels as high as 5 around midday. By monitoring the UV Index, you can enjoy the beautiful outdoor activities this charming town offers while taking essential steps to protect your skin from harmful rays.
The UV Index throughout the day reveals a dynamic pattern of solar intensity. Starting with a maximum of 0 at 7 AM, it gradually rises to a moderate 5 at 1 PM, where the sun shines its strongest. By 12 PM, the UV Index hits 4, prompting the need for sun protection. The intensity begins to taper off in the afternoon, dropping to 3 by 3 PM, and further decreasing to 1 by 5 PM. As twilight approaches, the UV Index settles back to 0 by 7 PM, signaling the end of the day's sun exposure. Plan accordingly, especially during those peak hours!
| 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 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 15:00 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
| 16:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 17:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 18:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 19:00 | 0 | low | 45 min |
Throughout the year, UV Index levels exhibit significant seasonal variations, with the highest risk occurring during the winter months. From January to March, the UV Index remains extremely high, reaching a peak of 15 in January, where a mere 10 minutes of exposure can result in skin burns. This extreme risk continues into October and November, maintaining an index of 13 and 14 respectively, again allowing for only 10 minutes of safe exposure. As the seasons shift into spring and summer, the UV levels decrease, with April seeing a very high index of 8, and then moderating further to levels of 5 to 6 from May to August. September marks a return to very high levels at 9 before the winter extremes resume. Given this data, it is crucial for both visitors and residents to exercise caution, particularly during the high-risk months of January, February, March, October, and November. It is advisable to use sunscreen, wear protective clothing, and limit direct exposure during peak UV hours to minimize skin damage and health risks.
UV Risk Categories
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Las Piedras UVI | 14 | 13 | 11 | 7 | 5 | 3 | 4 | 6 | 8 | 10 | 13 | 14 |
| Montevideo UVI | 14 | 13 | 11 | 7 | 5 | 3 | 4 | 6 | 8 | 10 | 13 | 14 |
| Paysandu UVI | 15 | 13 | 11 | 8 | 5 | 4 | 4 | 6 | 8 | 11 | 13 | 14 |
| Chapicuy | 15 | 13 | 12 | 8 | 5 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 9 | 11 | 13 | 14 |
| Salto UVI | 15 | 13 | 12 | 8 | 5 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 9 | 11 | 13 | 14 |
| Rivera UVI | 15 | 14 | 12 | 9 | 5 | 4 | 5 | 7 | 9 | 12 | 14 | 15 |