Last updated: May 3, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors in Belo Horizonte, Brazil, where the sun shines brightly, especially between late morning and early afternoon. With high levels of UV radiation, particularly during the peak hours of 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM, awareness of the UV Index can mean the difference between a fun, safe day outdoors and sunburn or long-term skin damage. Belo Horizonte's Cwa climate presents unique challenges, exposing individuals to significant UV risks, especially in the summer months. By staying informed about daily UV levels, you can take proactive steps to protect your skin and health while enjoying all that this vibrant city has to offer.
The UV Index rises and falls dramatically throughout the day, showcasing how the sun's intensity varies with time. Starting at a mild 1 at 7:00 AM, it gradually climbs to reach a peak of 9 between 11:00 AM and 12:00 PM, where sun protection is crucial. As the afternoon progresses, the index begins to dip — descending to 5 by 2:00 PM and tapering off to a safe 1 by 4:00 PM. Finally, the sun sets with the UV levels dropping to 0 after 6:00 PM, indicating it’s safe to enjoy the evening outdoors without worry. Stay vigilant during those midday hours to protect your skin!
| Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 08:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 09:00 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
| 10:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 11:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 12:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 13:00 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
| 14:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 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 |
The UV index data indicates significant seasonal changes, with extreme exposure occurring from January to April, where the UV Index remains at 17 to 12 and has a burn time of just 10 minutes. The months of February and March rank as high-risk due to their near-peak UV readings. As the year progresses into May and June, the UV index decreases but still poses risks, transitioning to a very high category, allowing for a slightly more extended burn time of 15 to 25 minutes. However, July and August return to very high levels despite a brief drop in June. As the summer ends and September through December roll in, residents and visitors should remain vigilant, as the index shifts back to extreme in both September and November, with consistent burn times of 10 minutes. It's crucial for everyone to take necessary precautions during these high-risk months, such as wearing sunscreen, protective clothing, and minimizing sun exposure during peak hours.
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 | 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 |