Last updated: August 1, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors of Porto Cervo, Italy, where the Mediterranean climate brings beautiful sunny days but also heightened risks of harmful UV exposure. With peak UV levels reaching up to 9 during midday hours, awareness of these levels is essential for preventing sunburn and protecting your skin health. As you enjoy the stunning beaches and outdoor activities in this picturesque coastal town, knowing how to respond to the UV Index can help you make informed decisions about sun safety and ensure your time in the sun is both delightful and safe.
As the sun rises, the UV Index begins its ascent, starting at a gentle 1 at 07:00. By 08:00, it climbs to 2, indicating a mild increase in UV exposure. The real peak arrives at 12:00, where the index reaches a striking 9, underscoring the importance of sun protection during these hours. This high level remains steady until 14:00, followed by a gradual descent as the afternoon wanes: 8 at 15:00, 6 at 16:00, and continuing down to 2 at 18:00. As evening approaches, the UV Index drops to a soft 1 by 19:00, signaling a gentle close to the sun-soaked day. Remember to take precautions during the midday hours to safeguard your skin!
| Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 08:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 09:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 10:00 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
| 11:00 | 6 | high | 25 min |
| 12:00 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
| 13:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 14:00 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
| 15:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 16:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 17:00 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
| 18:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 19:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
Throughout the year, the UV Index demonstrates significant seasonal fluctuations, indicating varying levels of sun exposure risk. January and February see moderate UV levels (3 and 4, respectively), with a burn time of 30 minutes. As spring approaches, March and April experience a rise in UV intensity (6 and 7), categorizing them as high risk, with a reduced burn time of 25 minutes. The summer months of May, June, July, and August reach peak UV levels (8 to 10), classified as very high risk, necessitating protective measures as burn times shorten to just 15 minutes. Fall brings a return to high UV levels in September and October (7 and 6), with burn times increasing to 25 minutes. Finally, November and December drop back to moderate and low exposure, respectively. Visitors and residents are strongly advised to take precautions during the high-risk months of March to October, including wearing sunscreen, protective clothing, and limiting sun exposure, particularly during peak hours.
UV Risk Categories
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Milan UVI | 2 | 3 | 5 | 6 | 8 | 9 | 9 | 8 | 6 | 5 | 3 | 2 |
| Turin UVI | 2 | 3 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 10 | 9 | 9 | 7 | 5 | 3 | 2 |
| Rome UVI | 3 | 4 | 5 | 7 | 8 | 10 | 10 | 9 | 7 | 5 | 4 | 2 |
| Porto Cervo | 3 | 4 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 10 | 9 | 9 | 7 | 6 | 4 | 2 |
| Naples UVI | 3 | 4 | 6 | 7 | 9 | 10 | 10 | 9 | 8 | 6 | 4 | 2 |
| Palermo UVI | 3 | 5 | 6 | 8 | 9 | 10 | 10 | 9 | 8 | 7 | 4 | 3 |