Last updated: June 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors of Pedra Azul, Brazil, where the warm, tropical climate can expose individuals to varying levels of ultraviolet radiation. With afternoon UV levels often peaking at a high of 9, knowing how to interpret these ratings is essential for effective sunburn prevention and maintaining long-term skin health. This region's climate, characterized by sunny days and occasional cloud cover, presents unique challenges for UV exposure, making it vital to stay informed and protected throughout the day. Be proactive about your skin's safety by monitoring the UV Index and taking appropriate precautions!
As the day unfolds, the UV Index experiences a notable rise, peaking at 9 during the noon hour. Starting from a gentle 1 at 7:00 AM, it escalates steadily, reaching 7 by 10:00 AM and 8 by 11:00 AM. The intensity continues to surge, hitting its zenith of 9 at 12:00 PM, before gradually tapering off in the afternoon. By 3:00 PM, it dips to 3, and as the sun begins to set, the index drops to a low 0 by 7:00 PM, signifying a swift decline in UV radiation. This pattern underscores the importance of sun safety during the peak hours of 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM, when UV exposure is at its highest. Stay protected and enjoy the sun wisely!
| 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 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
| 12:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 13:00 | 7 | high | 25 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 reveals significant seasonal fluctuations, with the highest levels recorded from January to March (UV Index 15, extreme exposure), suggesting these are high-risk months for sun-related health issues. Notably, April sees a slight decrease (UV Index 13), while May through July shift to very high levels (UV Index 10-9), allowing for slightly longer burn times of 15 minutes. August and September return to extreme levels (UV Index 12), and October to December peak again at UV Index 15, making precautions essential. Visitors and residents are strongly advised to limit direct sun exposure during these higher UV periods, especially from January to April and again in October and November, and to use protective measures such as sunscreen, clothing, and shade to reduce the risk of sunburn and long-term skin damage. Always stay vigilant about UV levels, regardless of the season!
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 |
| Pedra Azul | 15 | 15 | 14 | 13 | 10 | 9 | 9 | 12 | 12 | 14 | 15 | 15 |
| Fortaleza UVI | 14 | 14 | 15 | 15 | 13 | 11 | 11 | 12 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 13 |