Last updated: July 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for the residents and visitors of Sao Teotonio, Portugal, where the Mediterranean climate brings warm summers and ample sunshine. Awareness of UV levels is not just about enjoying the beautiful weather; it plays a vital role in sunburn prevention and maintaining overall skin health. With peak UV readings reaching as high as 10 during the midday hours, it's essential to recognize the potential risks of overexposure. Whether you're lounging on the beach or engaging in outdoor activities, staying informed about UV exposure can help you protect your skin while fully enjoying all that Sao Teotonio has to offer.
The UV Index throughout the day presents a dynamic portrait of solar intensity. Early morning hours from 7:00 to 8:00 maintain a gentle glow with a consistent level of 1, suggesting low sun exposure risk. As the day progresses, a noticeable shift occurs; by 9:00, the index climbs to 3, marking the onset of stronger rays. The peak is reached at 1:00 PM and 2:00 PM, where the UV Index soars to an intense 10, indicating very high exposure risk, making sun protection vital. Post-peak, from 3:00 PM onward, the index gradually declines, settling to 5 by 5:00 PM and dwindling further to low levels of 1 by 7:00 PM. This data underscores the importance of being sun-smart during those midday hours when UV radiation is strongest.
| 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 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
| 11:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 12:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 13:00 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
| 14:00 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
| 15:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 16:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 17:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 18:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 19:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
Seasonal changes in UV radiation show a significant increase from late winter through summer, peaking during the hotter months. High-risk months with extreme UV levels include June (UV Index 11) and July to August (UV Index 10), where the burn time is as little as 10 to 15 minutes. Visitors and residents should take precautionary measures during these months, such as wearing protective clothing, using broad-spectrum sunscreen, and minimizing sun exposure between 10 AM and 4 PM. As fall approaches, UV levels gradually decrease, but it remains important to stay aware, particularly in March through October, when the UV index often enters the high to very high categories.
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 |
| Sao Teotonio | 3 | 5 | 6 | 9 | 10 | 11 | 10 | 10 | 9 | 7 | 4 | 3 |