Last updated: July 2, 2025
In Vargem Grande, Brazil, staying aware of the UV Index is crucial for protecting your skin and overall health. During peak hours, UV levels can rise dramatically, peaking at an intense 11 around midday. Understanding these variations helps in preventing sunburn and reducing long-term skin damage, essential in a region characterized by its tropical climate. With UV exposure risks heightened in this environment, being informed about daily fluctuations in UV levels empowers you to take the necessary precautions, such as seeking shade or applying sunscreen, to enjoy the vibrant outdoor lifestyle while safeguarding your health.
The UV Index begins its ascent at 07:00 with a low reading of 1, gradually rising to 2 by 08:00. As the day progresses, the intensity of UV radiation peaks at 12:00, hitting a maximum of 11—a critical level where sun protection is essential. Following this zenith, the index starts to decline, measuring 10 at 13:00, then tapering off to 8 by 14:00. By mid-afternoon, the UV Index drops to 5 at 15:00 and continues its downward trajectory, reaching 2 at 16:00. As the sun sets, the UV index decreases to 1 by 17:00 and ultimately settles at 0 by 18:00, signifying the end of significant UV exposure for the day. It's a reminder that while the sun's rays can be intense at midday, the morning and late afternoon offer safer conditions for outdoor activities.
| 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 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
| 11:00 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
| 12:00 | 11 | extreme | 10 min |
| 13:00 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
| 14:00 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
| 15:00 | 5 | 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 data reveals that January through April presents the highest risk for sun exposure, with UV Index values peaking at 16 in March. Throughout the year, the UV Index remains alarmingly high, categorized as extreme, with consistent maximum burn times of just 10 minutes. This necessitates that both residents and visitors take strict precautions, especially during the high-risk months of January to April, when sun exposure is most detrimental. To safeguard against harmful UV radiation, it is crucial to wear protective clothing, apply broad-spectrum sunscreen, and seek shade during peak sun hours. Even in the latter months of the year, UV levels remain significant, underscoring the need for continued sun safety awareness.
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 |
| Vargem Grande | 15 | 14 | 16 | 15 | 13 | 11 | 11 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 13 |