Last updated: July 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is essential for residents and visitors of Velas, Portugal, a picturesque town known for its stunning landscapes and Mediterranean climate. The UV levels can fluctuate significantly throughout the day, peaking at 10 between 1 PM and 3 PM, which highlights the importance of UV awareness for effective sunburn prevention and maintaining skin health. With the Csb climate, Velas experiences considerable sun exposure, making it critical to recognize when to seek shade or apply sunscreen to safeguard your skin against harmful UV rays. Whether you're enjoying outdoor activities or simply soaking in the natural beauty, keeping track of the UV Index can help you enjoy the sun safely.
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 |
Throughout the year, the UV Index exhibits significant seasonal variations that affect sun exposure risks. High-risk months typically occur from April to September, where UV levels rise sharply, peaking in June with an extreme UV Index of 11. During these months, the recommended burn time decreases, reaching as little as 10 minutes in June. As a result, it is crucial for visitors and residents to take precautions during this period, such as wearing protective clothing, applying sunscreen with a high SPF, and seeking shade, especially during midday hours. Conversely, the winter months of January, February, and December present a much lower risk, with moderate UV exposure levels and longer burn times of 30 minutes. Being mindful of these seasonal changes in UV levels can help ensure safer outdoor experiences year-round.
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 |
| Velas | 3 | 5 | 7 | 8 | 10 | 11 | 10 | 10 | 9 | 7 | 4 | 3 |