Last updated: May 3, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors of Porto Novo, Cabo Verde, where the sun’s rays can be particularly intense due to its BWh climate. Being aware of UV levels is not just about avoiding sunburn; it plays a vital role in protecting your skin health in the long run. With peak UV Index values soaring to 13 during the midday hours, it’s essential to be vigilant about sun safety, especially when enjoying outdoor activities. By monitoring the UV Index, you can make informed decisions to safeguard yourself against overexposure and embrace the vibrant outdoor lifestyle that Porto Novo offers.
The UV Index throughout the day reveals a dynamic pattern that peaks dramatically around noon. Starting from 1 at 07:00, it gradually climbs to 2 by 08:00, then elevates sharply to 5 at 09:00. The sun’s strength intensifies significantly, reaching a peak of 13 by 12:00 and maintaining this intensity until 13:00. As the afternoon progresses, the UV index begins to decline, dropping to 11 at 14:00, and further down to 8 by 15:00. The evening brings a gentle descent, winding down to 1 at 18:00 and resting at 0 by 19:00. For outdoor enthusiasts, it's clear that the midday hours demand vigilance against sun exposure, while the early morning and late afternoon provide more comfortable UV conditions.
| Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 08:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 09:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 10:00 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
| 11:00 | 11 | extreme | 10 min |
| 12:00 | 13 | extreme | 10 min |
| 13:00 | 13 | extreme | 10 min |
| 14:00 | 11 | extreme | 10 min |
| 15:00 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
| 16:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 17:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 18:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 19:00 | 0 | low | 45 min |
During the year, UV Index levels show significant seasonal variations, with the highest readings occurring from February through October, indicating a period of extreme exposure. Specifically, months like March, April, May, August, and September reach a peak UV Index of 13, warranting caution as the burn time is only 10 minutes. January and February also present high risks with UV Index values of 9 and 11, respectively, while November and December return to a very high risk, but with slightly longer burn times of 15 minutes. It is imperative for visitors and residents to take protective measures, such as wearing sunscreen, protective clothing, and sunglasses, especially during these high-risk months, to mitigate the risk of UV damage.
UV Risk Categories
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Santa Maria UVI | 9 | 10 | 12 | 13 | 12 | 11 | 12 | 13 | 13 | 11 | 10 | 9 |
| Porto Novo | 9 | 11 | 12 | 13 | 13 | 12 | 12 | 13 | 13 | 11 | 9 | 9 |
| Mindelo UVI | 9 | 11 | 12 | 13 | 13 | 12 | 12 | 13 | 13 | 11 | 9 | 9 |
| Cova Figueira UVI | 9 | 11 | 13 | 13 | 12 | 12 | 12 | 13 | 14 | 12 | 10 | 9 |
| Santa Cruz UVI | 9 | 11 | 13 | 13 | 12 | 12 | 13 | 13 | 14 | 12 | 10 | 9 |
| Praia UVI | 9 | 11 | 13 | 13 | 12 | 12 | 13 | 13 | 14 | 12 | 10 | 9 |