UV Index in Fortaleza, Brazil

Last updated: June 2, 2025

Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors in Fortaleza, Brazil, where the sun shines brightly and consistently throughout the year. High UV levels can lead to painful sunburns and long-term skin health issues, making it essential to be aware of the daily UV fluctuations. With the city’s tropical climate, particularly during midday when UV Index values can soar to 11, being informed about UV exposure risks helps protect your skin and enjoy the outdoors safely. From early morning to late afternoon, knowing when to seek shade or apply sunscreen can significantly impact your well-being under the intense Brazilian sun.

Hourly UV Index in Fortaleza

As the sun rises and begins to assert its strength, the UV Index increases rapidly throughout the morning. At 7:00 AM, it starts at a modest 2, but by 9:00 AM, it leaps to a notable 7. The peak intensity hits high noon, with 11 at both 11:00 AM and 12:00 PM, indicating a critical time for sun safety. After that, the index begins to drop, falling to 6 by 2:00 PM and further declining toward the evening, finally reaching 0 by 7:00 PM. This data starkly illustrates the importance of sun protection during the midday hours when UV exposure is at its most dangerous.

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	2	low	45 min
08:00	4	moderate	30 min
09:00	7	high	25 min
10:00	10	very high	15 min
11:00	11	extreme	10 min
12:00	11	extreme	10 min
13:00	9	very high	15 min
14:00	6	high	25 min
15:00	3	moderate	30 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 Fortaleza

The UV Index data reveals that from January to April, there is a consistently high risk of UV exposure, peaking at 15 in March and April. May shows a slight decline to 13, but the risk remains extreme throughout these months with a burn time of just 10 minutes. As we transition into summer, June and July maintain an index of 11, while August sees a slight rise to 12. The UV levels remain notably high into the fall, with September to November averaging 13. Visitors and residents should take precautions during these high-risk months, particularly from January through April and again in September to November, by wearing protective clothing, applying broad-spectrum sunscreen, and seeking shade to minimize the risk of skin damage.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Fortaleza, Brazil

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

The table above highlights how UV exposure in Fortaleza compares to other major locations across Brazil. This comparison helps travelers and residents better understand regional sun intensity and plan outdoor activities with sun safety in mind.

Fortaleza's solar exposure compared to other cities in Brazil. Generated using Copernicus Atmosphere Monitoring Service information.
	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	14	14	15	15	13	11	11	12	13	13	13	13