Last updated: August 1, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors of Sao Lourenco da Serra, Brazil, where the subtropical Cfa climate can lead to varying sun exposure throughout the day. Being aware of UV levels not only helps prevent painful sunburns but also supports long-term skin health by mitigating the risks associated with excessive sun exposure. During peak hours, especially from 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM, the UV Index can soar to 7, signaling a high risk for harm from unprotected sun exposure. By staying informed and taking necessary precautions, you can enjoy the beautiful outdoors while keeping your skin safe.
The UV Index data for the day reveals a dynamic pattern of sun exposure. Starting off at a low level, both 7:00 AM and 8:00 AM maintain a mere index of 1, indicating minimal UV radiation. As the sun climbs higher, 9:00 AM sees the index rise to 3, gradually peaking at 12:00 PM with an intense 7, suggesting it's time for sun protection. The afternoon hours show a slight decline, with 1:00 PM and 2:00 PM still holding strong at 6 and 5 respectively. As the day winds down, the index drops sharply after 3:00 PM, falling back to a 1 by 4:00 PM and eventually reaching 0 by 6:00 PM, marking a safe return from the sun's harsh rays. It's a reminder of the importance of sun safety during those midday hours!
| 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 | 6 | high | 25 min |
| 11:00 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
| 12:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 13:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 14:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 15:00 | 4 | 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 experiences significant seasonal changes, peaking in the winter and late fall months, with extreme levels recorded from January through April and again in September to November. This means January, February, March, April, September, October, and November are considered high-risk months for sun exposure, with a burn time of only 10 minutes in these extreme conditions. In contrast, during the summer months of June and July, the UV levels drop to high, allowing for a slightly longer burn time of 25 minutes, while May and August remain at very high, with 15 minutes before potential damage occurs. Visitors and residents are advised to take precautions, such as wearing sunscreen, protective clothing, and seeking shade, especially during the peak months to minimize the risk of skin damage and ensure safe outdoor activities.
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 |
| Sao Lourenco da Serra | 16 | 15 | 13 | 11 | 8 | 6 | 7 | 9 | 11 | 13 | 15 | 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 |