Last updated: June 2, 2025
In Cova Figueira, Cabo Verde, staying informed about the UV Index is crucial for protecting your skin against harmful solar radiation. Understanding UV levels not only aids in sunburn prevention but also promotes long-term skin health by minimizing the risk of skin damage. With a warm climate characterized by high UV exposure, especially between 11:00 AM and 1:00 PM when the index peaks at 12, residents and visitors must take proactive measures. Whether you're enjoying a sunny day outdoors or exploring the breathtaking landscapes, knowing the UV risk helps you enjoy the sunshine safely.
The hourly UV Index today presents a dramatic journey through sunlight intensity. Starting off at 07:00, the index is a mild 1, gradually rising to 2 by 08:00. As the morning progresses, the UV rays escalate, peaking at a formidable 12 between 12:00 and 13:00, indicating the highest risk for sun exposure. Once the clock strikes 14:00, the index begins to descend, dropping to 11 and subsequently to 8 by 15:00. The late afternoon brings a cooling respite, as levels fall to 5 at 16:00, before retreating to a soft 1 by the evening hours 18:00 to 19:00. It's a classic reminder of how the sun's impact can shift throughout the day, urging us to stay protected during peak 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 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 11:00 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
| 12:00 | 12 | extreme | 10 min |
| 13:00 | 12 | 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 | 1 | low | 45 min |
Throughout the year, the UV Index exhibits significant seasonal changes, with the highest levels during the late summer to early fall months. From September to August, the UV Index peaks at 14, indicating an extreme exposure category with a burn time of just 10 minutes. The high-risk months fall between February and September, where the UV Index consistently reaches extremes of 11 to 14, leading to a burn time of only 10 minutes. In contrast, the winter months of December and January see a reduction in risk, with a UV Index of 9, categorized as very high, allowing for a slightly longer burn time of 15 minutes. Visitors and residents are strongly advised to take precautions during high UV periods by using sunscreen, wearing protective clothing, and minimizing sun exposure, especially during midday hours when the UV rays are strongest.
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 |
| Mindelo UVI | 9 | 11 | 12 | 13 | 13 | 12 | 12 | 13 | 13 | 11 | 9 | 9 |
| Cova Figueira | 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 |