UV Index in Petrolina, Brazil

Last updated: May 3, 2025

Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents of Petrolina, Brazil, where the intense sun can lead to significant skin damage. With a climate categorized as BSh, the region experiences high UV levels, particularly during midday, where readings can soar to 12. Being aware of these levels not only helps in sunburn prevention but also plays a vital role in maintaining long-term skin health. As the sun's rays peak between 10 AM and 2 PM, knowing when to seek cover or apply sunscreen can make all the difference. Stay informed and protect your skin against the powerful Brazilian sun!

Hourly UV Index in Petrolina

As the sun rises, the UV Index begins its ascent, starting at a mild 1 at 07:00. By 08:00, it ramps up to 3, signaling that it’s time to be aware of UV exposure. The day's peak hits between 11:00 and 12:00, soaring to an intense 12—a clear reminder to seek shade and apply sunscreen. After this zenith, the index gradually declines, dipping to 4 by 15:00 and cooling down to a safe 1 by 16:00. As the evening sets in, the UV Index falls to 0, marking the end of a day where vigilance was key, especially during the midday hours. Remember, when it comes to UV rays, it’s always best to be sun-smart!

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	1	low	45 min
08:00	3	moderate	30 min
09:00	7	high	25 min
10:00	10	very high	15 min
11:00	12	extreme	10 min
12:00	12	extreme	10 min
13:00	10	very high	15 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 Petrolina

Throughout the year, the UV Index exhibits notable seasonal changes, peaking dramatically during the summer months. January to April sees an extreme exposure category with a consistently high UV Index ranging from 14 to 15, leading to a burn time of just 10 minutes. This pattern persists into the late fall and winter months, as November and December also maintain a high index. Conversely, June to August presents a slightly lower but still extreme risk, with a maximum of 12 and a burn time of 10-15 minutes. The sun's intensity gradually decreases as autumn approaches, but high-risk months include January to April and November. Visitors and residents are strongly advised to take necessary precautions during these times by wearing protective clothing, using broad-spectrum sunscreen, and limiting sun exposure to avoid skin damage.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Petrolina, Brazil

The monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) represents the highest UV radiation level recorded each month in Petrolina. 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 Petrolina, 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 Petrolina UV Index with Other Brazil Cities

The table above highlights how UV exposure in Petrolina 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.

Petrolina'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 UVI	14	14	15	15	13	11	11	12	13	13	13	13
Petrolina	15	14	15	14	12	10	11	12	13	14	15	14