Last updated: July 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors in Caldas Novas, Brazil, especially given its tropical climate and high sun exposure. With UV levels peaking at 9 during midday hours, awareness of these levels is essential for preventing sunburn and promoting long-term skin health. Knowing when the sun's rays are most intense allows you to take proactive measures, whether that's seeking shade, applying sunscreen, or wearing protective clothing. As this charming destination is known for its sunny weather, keeping a close eye on the UV Index could mean the difference between a fun day outdoors and an uncomfortable sunburn.
As the sun rises, the UV Index starts off low at a comfortable 1 from 7:00 AM to 8:00 AM. By 9:00 AM, it jumps to 3, signaling a gradual increase in sun exposure. The intensity peaks around 12:00 PM, reaching an impressive 9, making midday the most critical time for sun safety. As the afternoon unfolds, the index slowly declines; it drops to 7 by 2:00 PM, then further decreases to 4 at 3:00 PM. The later hours offer a gentle reprieve, with values falling to 1 by 5:00 PM and ultimately 0 by 6:00 PM. Remember, during those peak hours, it’s essential to protect your skin!
| Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 08:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 09:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 10:00 | 6 | high | 25 min |
| 11:00 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
| 12:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 13:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 14:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 15:00 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
| 16:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 17:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 18:00 | 0 | low | 45 min |
| 19:00 | 0 | low | 45 min |
The UV Index exhibits significant seasonal variations, remaining high throughout the year, with particularly extreme levels from January to April and again in August to November. The UV Index peaks at 16 in the winter months of January, February, and December, indicating an extreme risk level with a burn time of just 10 minutes. As the year progresses, the risk remains notably high during March, April, and later in the fall with October and November, all classified under the extreme category. May, June, and July show a slight decrease, with UV ratings in the very high category, allowing for a slightly longer burn time of 15 minutes. Visitors and residents are strongly advised to take protective measures year-round, particularly from January to April and August to November, which are identified as high-risk months for UV exposure. Always wear sunscreen, protective clothing, and sunglasses, and seek shade during peak sunlight hours to prevent skin damage.
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 |
| Caldas Novas | 16 | 16 | 14 | 12 | 10 | 8 | 9 | 11 | 12 | 14 | 15 | 16 |
| Fortaleza UVI | 14 | 14 | 15 | 15 | 13 | 11 | 11 | 12 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 13 |