UV Index in Fortaleza, Brazil

Last updated: May 3, 2025

In Fortaleza, Brazil, being aware of the UV Index is crucial for protecting your skin and overall health. With the tropical climate and a high potential for intense UV exposure, understanding the UV levels can significantly aid in sunburn prevention and long-term skin health. Typically, UV levels in Fortaleza peak between 10 AM and 2 PM, reaching indices of up to 13, which poses substantial risks for outdoor activities without adequate protection. Staying informed about these UV levels not only helps you enjoy the beautiful sun-soaked days safely but also fosters a better understanding of how to care for your skin in this vibrant coastal city.

Hourly UV Index in Fortaleza

The UV Index data reveals a dynamic pattern throughout the day, with values gradually climbing after sunrise. At 07:00, the index starts at a modest 2 but jumps to 4 by 08:00. The intensity peaks at 11:00 and 12:00, reaching a high of 13, indicating a significant risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure. As the afternoon progresses, the UV Index declines, dropping to 7 at 14:00 and further plummeting to 1 by 16:00. After that, it falls to 0 by 18:00, signaling a safe end to sun exposure for the day. This data underscores the importance of sun safety measures, especially during the peak hours of 10:00 to 14:00 when the sun's rays are at their strongest.

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	8	very high	15 min
10:00	11	extreme	10 min
11:00	13	extreme	10 min
12:00	13	extreme	10 min
13:00	11	extreme	10 min
14:00	7	high	25 min
15:00	4	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