Last updated: June 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is essential for residents and visitors of Tarrafal de Sao Nicolau, Cabo Verde, as it plays a crucial role in safeguarding skin health and preventing sunburn. With its BWh climate, this picturesque locale enjoys abundant sunshine, leading to varying UV exposure levels throughout the day. Particularly, the UV index peaks at 12 between noon and 1 PM, indicating a high risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure. Being aware of these levels empowers you to take necessary precautions, ensuring your time in this beautiful setting is both enjoyable and safe.
The UV Index displays an intriguing pattern throughout the day, starting from a gentle 1 at 07:00 and gradually climbing to a peak of 12 at noon. As the sun rises higher, the intensity of UV radiation escalates, reaching a striking 10 at 11:00 and maintaining a solid 12 at 12:00, signaling a cautious time for outdoor activities. This intensity begins to wane after 13:00, dropping back to 10 by 14:00, before gently declining throughout the afternoon and evening, ending the day at a safe 1 by 19:00. Stay sun-smart and enjoy the outdoors, but be sure to protect your skin when the index reaches higher levels!
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 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
15:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
16:00 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
17:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
18:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
19:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
The UV Index shows significant seasonal variations, with high-risk months occurring from February to October. During this period, the UV Index consistently falls within the extreme category, peaking at 13 in March, April, August, and September, which corresponds to a burn time of just 10 minutes. Conversely, in January, November, and December, the UV Index is classified as very high, with a slightly longer burn time of 15 minutes. Residents and visitors are strongly advised to take appropriate sun protection measures during the extreme months, which include wearing sunscreen, protective clothing, and seeking shade, especially during midday hours.
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 |
Tarrafal de Sao Nicolau | 9 | 11 | 13 | 13 | 12 | 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 |