Last updated: July 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is essential for residents and visitors of Lajes, Portugal, as it provides vital information about the sun's intensity and potential risks associated with UV exposure. Recognizing UV levels can help prevent sunburn, protect your skin health, and reduce the risk of long-term damage caused by excessive sun exposure. With Lajes’ Csb climate, characterized by mild temperatures and varying sun intensity throughout the day, it's crucial to stay informed about UV levels—especially during peak hours when the index can soar to 10. Being aware of these factors ensures you can enjoy the beautiful outdoors while safeguarding your skin from harmful effects.
As the sun rises, the UV Index begins its climb, starting at just 1 at 07:00 and 08:00, making it safe to enjoy some early morning activities. By 09:00, it reaches 2, hinting at the day's potential. But it’s at 10:00 that the UV Index really picks up, soaring to 4 as the sun ascends. The peak intensity occurs between 12:00 and 14:00, where it hits a sizzling 10—a clear signal to seek shade and wear sunscreen! After this zenith, the UV levels gradually dip, falling to 8 by 16:00, then to 5 at 17:00, and finally tapering off to 2 by 19:00. Embrace some caution during those midday hours, as the sun’s embrace can be fierce!
| 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 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
| 14:00 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
| 15:00 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
| 16:00 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
| 17:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 18:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 19:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
As the seasons change, so do the UV index levels, with highest risks typically occurring from April to September. During these months, especially in June when the UV index reaches an extreme level of 11, the burn time is as short as 10 minutes. Visitors and residents should be particularly vigilant during this period, taking necessary precautions such as applying sunscreen with a high SPF, wearing protective clothing, and limiting sun exposure during peak hours. Conversely, during the winter months from January to March, the UV levels are substantially lower, categorized as moderate to high, allowing for safer outdoor activities with burn times ranging from 25 to 30 minutes. It’s crucial to remain aware of these seasonal changes to protect skin health throughout the year.
UV Risk Categories
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Braga UVI | 2 | 4 | 6 | 8 | 9 | 11 | 10 | 9 | 8 | 6 | 4 | 2 |
| Porto UVI | 2 | 4 | 6 | 8 | 9 | 11 | 10 | 9 | 8 | 6 | 4 | 2 |
| Amadora UVI | 3 | 5 | 6 | 9 | 10 | 11 | 10 | 9 | 8 | 6 | 4 | 3 |
| Lisbon UVI | 3 | 5 | 6 | 9 | 10 | 11 | 10 | 9 | 8 | 6 | 4 | 3 |
| Setubal UVI | 3 | 5 | 6 | 9 | 10 | 11 | 10 | 9 | 8 | 6 | 4 | 3 |
| Lajes | 3 | 5 | 7 | 9 | 10 | 11 | 10 | 10 | 9 | 7 | 4 | 3 |