Last updated: July 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index in Mertola, Portugal, is essential for protecting your skin and overall health. With the Mediterranean climate characteristic of this picturesque town, UV radiation levels can soar, especially between 11 AM and 3 PM, peaking at a significant 11. Awareness of UV levels is crucial for preventing sunburn and long-term skin damage, ensuring that your outdoor activities remain safe and enjoyable. Whether you’re exploring the charming streets or basking under the sun, knowing the UV Index helps you take the right precautions to safeguard your skin's health during those intense exposure hours.
As the sun rises on this vibrant day, the UV Index begins its steady ascent. Starting at a mild 1 at 07:00, it quickly climbs to 3 by 09:00, signaling that it’s time to enjoy some outdoor activities with caution. By 10:00, the index reaches a moderate 5, but the real heat kicks in at 11:00, peaking at an intense 11 from 13:00 to 14:00. During this peak, sun protection is crucial, especially for those planning to be outdoors. As the afternoon progresses, the UV Index gently declines, dropping to 7 by 16:00 and tapering off to 4 by 17:00. As the sun sets, the index returns to 1 by 19:00, marking a gentle end to a day of vibrant sunlight.
Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
---|---|---|---|
07:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
08:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
09:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
10:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
11:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
12:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
13:00 | 11 | extreme | 10 min |
14:00 | 11 | extreme | 10 min |
15:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
16:00 | 7 | high | 25 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 experiences notable variations, with the highest risk months occurring from April to August. During this period, the UV Index peaks at 11 in June and July, categorizing these months as having extreme exposure levels with a burn time of just 10 minutes. In contrast, the lowest risk months are January and December, where the UV Index remains at 3, indicating a moderate risk with a burn time of 30 minutes. Visitors and residents are strongly advised to take precautions during peak months by applying sunscreen, wearing protective clothing, and seeking shade, particularly between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. to minimize the risk of sunburn and skin damage.
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 |
Mertola | 3 | 5 | 7 | 9 | 10 | 11 | 11 | 10 | 9 | 7 | 4 | 3 |