Last updated: May 3, 2025
Understanding the UV Index in São Gabriel da Cachoeira is crucial for maintaining skin health and preventing sunburn in this tropical climate. With a typically high UV exposure, particularly during midday when levels can reach a maximum of 14, being aware of UV intensity can help residents and visitors alike take the necessary precautions to protect their skin. The sun's rays are strongest between 10 AM and 2 PM, making it essential to plan outdoor activities accordingly. By staying informed about the UV Index, you can enjoy the beautiful outdoors while safeguarding your health from the harmful effects of ultraviolet radiation.
As the sun rises, the UV Index begins its ascent, starting at a mild 1 at 07:00. The intensity ramps up quickly, hitting 2 by 08:00 and surging to a moderate 5 by 09:00. However, as midday approaches, watch out! The index skyrockets to a peak of 14 between 12:00 and 13:00, signaling a high risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure. After this zenith, the UV Index gradually descends, dropping to 11 at 14:00, and then easing to 4 by 16:00. Finally, the index dwindles to 1 by 17:00 and fades to 0 by 19:00, marking a day where sun safety is crucial during those brightest hours.
| Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 08:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 09:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 10:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 11:00 | 12 | extreme | 10 min |
| 12:00 | 14 | extreme | 10 min |
| 13:00 | 14 | extreme | 10 min |
| 14:00 | 11 | extreme | 10 min |
| 15:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 16:00 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
| 17:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 18:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 19:00 | 0 | low | 45 min |
The UV Index exhibits extreme levels from January to May, peaking at 16 in March and April, indicating that these months are particularly high-risk for sun exposure with a burn time as short as 10 minutes. The UV Index remains elevated even during the summer months, fluctuating between 12 and 14, but slightly decreases in intensity starting in June. As such, visitors and residents are advised to take precautions year-round, especially during the high-risk months, by wearing broad-spectrum sunscreen, protective clothing, and seeking shade to minimize exposure during peak sunlight hours. With extreme exposure categories persisting throughout the year, vigilance is key to protecting skin health.
UV Risk Categories
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Rio de Janeiro UVI | 15 | 14 | 13 | 10 | 7 | 6 | 7 | 9 | 11 | 12 | 13 | 15 |
| Sao Paulo UVI | 16 | 15 | 12 | 11 | 8 | 6 | 7 | 9 | 11 | 13 | 14 | 15 |
| Belo Horizonte UVI | 17 | 16 | 14 | 12 | 9 | 7 | 8 | 10 | 12 | 13 | 14 | 16 |
| Salvador UVI | 14 | 14 | 14 | 13 | 10 | 9 | 9 | 12 | 12 | 15 | 15 | 14 |
| Fortaleza UVI | 14 | 14 | 15 | 15 | 13 | 11 | 11 | 12 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 13 |
| Sao Gabriel da Cachoeira | 14 | 15 | 16 | 16 | 14 | 12 | 12 | 12 | 13 | 14 | 13 | 12 |