UV Index in Sao Paulo, Brazil

Last updated: May 3, 2025

Understanding the UV Index in São Paulo, Brazil is crucial for safeguarding your skin against harmful ultraviolet rays. With high UV levels especially prevalent during noon hours, awareness can play a significant role in sunburn prevention and maintaining long-term skin health. The tropical climate of São Paulo, characterized by its warm temperatures and ample sunshine, increases the risk of overexposure—even on seemingly mild days. By keeping an eye on the UV Index, you can enjoy outdoor activities safely while minimizing the risk of sun damage.

Hourly UV Index in Sao Paulo

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.

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.
TimeUVICategoryTime to Burn
07:001low45 min
08:001low45 min
09:003moderate30 min
10:005moderate30 min
11:007high25 min
12:008very high15 min
13:007high25 min
14:005moderate30 min
15:003moderate30 min
16:001low45 min
17:001low45 min
18:000low45 min
19:000low45 min

Monthly UV Index Trends in Sao Paulo

The UV Index exhibits significant seasonal changes, peaking between January and April with extreme levels ranging from 15 to 16, which translates to a rapid burn time of just 10 minutes. Following this intense period, May marks a decrease to a very high index of 8, with a slightly longer burn time of 15 minutes. From June to July, the UV exposure remains high, with indices of 6 to 7, allowing for up to 25 minutes of safe sun exposure. As summer fades, August sees a rise again to a very high index of 9, followed by a return to extreme levels in September and throughout the fall months into December, where the index consistently hovers around 14 to 15 with a 10-minute burn time. Consequently, the highest risk months for UV exposure are from January to April and September to November. Visitors and residents are strongly advised to take necessary precautions during these periods, such as using sunscreen, wearing protective clothing, and seeking shade to minimize the risk of sunburn and long-term skin damage.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Sao Paulo, Brazil

The monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) represents the highest UV radiation level recorded each month in Sao Paulo. It measures the strength of ultraviolet radiation from the sun and helps assess the risk of sunburn and UV-related health issues.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec16151211867911131415
Data source: Statistical UV Index data for Sao Paulo, 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 Sao Paulo UV Index with Other Brazil Cities

The table above highlights how UV exposure in Sao Paulo 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.
Sao Paulo's solar exposure compared to other cities in Brazil. Generated using Copernicus Atmosphere Monitoring Service information.
 JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Rio de Janeiro UVI15141310767911121315
Sao Paulo16151211867911131415
Belo Horizonte UVI171614129781012131416
Salvador UVI1414141310991212151514
Fortaleza UVI141415151311111213131313