Last updated: May 3, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for staying safe in Cerquilho, Brazil, where the tropical climate often leads to higher levels of ultraviolet radiation. Knowing the UV index helps residents and visitors alike gauge their sun exposure risk, allowing for better prevention of sunburn and long-term skin health issues. With daily peaks reaching an index of 8 between 12:00 PM and 1:00 PM, it’s essential to take precautions, especially during the hottest parts of the day. As Cerquilho typically experiences warm temperatures and ample sunshine, being aware of UV levels can make a significant difference in protecting your skin from harmful effects.
The UV Index data paints a vivid picture of sun exposure throughout the day. In the early hours, from 7:00 AM to 9:00 AM, the UV Index remains low, peaking at only 1. However, as the sun climbs higher, from 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM, it surges to 8 at noon, marking the peak of solar intensity. The afternoon sees a slight decline, with the index dropping to 5 at 2:00 PM and further to 3 by 3:00 PM. As evening approaches, the UV levels plummet back to a safe 1 by 4:00 PM, and the sun's diminishing rays result in a 0 by 6:00 PM, signaling a welcome reprieve from UV exposure. Essentially, the peak intensity occurs during midday hours, highlighting the importance of seeking shade and wearing protection during these critical hours.
| 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 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 11:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 12:00 | 8 | 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 |
Throughout the year, the UV Index experiences significant seasonal fluctuations, with the highest risk months occurring from January to April and then again in September to November, during which the index often exceeds 10 and is classified as extreme. Notably, January and December both peak at a UV Index of 16, indicating a burn time of only 10 minutes for unprotected skin. As the weather warms, there is a slight decrease in UV exposure, recorded in June and July, where the index ranges from 6 to 7—labeled as high and allowing for a somewhat safer 25-minute burn time. Visitors and residents are strongly advised to exercise caution during peak UV months by wearing protective clothing, applying sunscreen regularly, and seeking shade when necessary to minimize the risk of sunburn and long-term 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 |
| Cerquilho | 16 | 15 | 12 | 11 | 8 | 6 | 7 | 9 | 11 | 13 | 14 | 16 |
| 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 |