Last updated: July 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for ensuring skin health in Santa Cruz das Flores, Portugal, where the mild maritime climate can still pose significant UV exposure risks. With peak values reaching 10 during the sunniest hours, awareness of varying UV levels helps prevent sunburn and long-term skin damage. In this picturesque locale, where outdoor activities abound, being informed about the UV Index is essential for protecting yourself and your loved ones while enjoying the beautiful surroundings. Stay prepared and stay safe under the sun!
As the day progresses, the UV Index rises steadily, starting at a low of 1 at 7:00 AM and 8:00 AM. By 9:00 AM, it nudges up to 2, but the real surge begins around 10:00 AM when it reaches 3. The peak UV intensity occurs between 12:00 PM and 2:00 PM, with a striking 10 at both 1:00 PM and 2:00 PM, indicating a high potential for skin damage without protection. Fortunately, the index starts to decline slightly after 3:00 PM, dropping to 8 at 4:00 PM and gradually decreasing to 2 by 7:00 PM. It's crucial to stay sun-smart during the midday hours when the UV rays are at their strongest!
| 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 | 3 | 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 | 6 | high | 25 min |
| 18:00 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
| 19:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
Throughout the year, the UV Index exhibits significant seasonal changes, with March through September being the highest risk months for UV exposure. In March, the index rises to 7 (high), escalating sharply to 11 (extreme) by June. The months of April and May also feature very high levels at 8 and 10, respectively, indicating that sun protection is crucial. Notably, July and August maintain very high levels before tapering off in September at 8. To safeguard against skin damage, visitors and residents are advised to limit sun exposure during these peak months, especially when the burn time is as low as 10-15 minutes. Wearing sunscreen, protective clothing, and seeking shade are essential practices, particularly from late spring through summer when UV radiation is most intense. In contrast, the months of January, February, November, and December present a lower risk with moderate indexes, allowing for more lenient sun exposure precautions.
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 |
| Santa Cruz das Flores | 3 | 4 | 7 | 8 | 10 | 11 | 10 | 10 | 8 | 6 | 4 | 3 |