Last updated: July 2, 2025
In Alcácer do Sal, Portugal, staying aware of the UV Index is crucial for maintaining skin health and preventing sunburn. With a Mediterranean climate characterized by warm, dry summers, the UV levels can become dangerously high, especially between 11:00 AM and 3:00 PM when they peak at a level of 10. Understanding these UV levels is essential; it helps residents and visitors alike protect their skin from harmful rays and enjoy the beauty of the sun safely. Whether planning a day at the beach or a walk through the historic streets, checking the UV Index can make all the difference in ensuring a fun and safe experience under the Portuguese sun.
The UV Index is a dynamic measure of solar intensity throughout the day, peaking dramatically at 12:00 PM with a notable 9, reaching its zenith at 1:00 PM and 2:00 PM with a maximum value of 10. During this period, it's essential to protect your skin from harmful UV rays. Early morning hours remain quite low, peaking at just 1 by 08:00 AM, while by 10:00 AM the index climbs to 5. As the sun continues to rise, it climbs swiftly to 7 by 11:00 AM, making midday the crucial time for sunscreen and shade. As the afternoon wanes, the UV Index gradually decreases, falling back to 5 by 5:00 PM, and finally settling at 1 by 7:00 PM, signaling a safe return to outdoor activities. Stay vigilant and enjoy the sunshine safely!
| 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 | 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 |
Throughout the year, UV index levels exhibit notable seasonal changes, with the highest risks occurring from April to September. April (UV Index 9) marks the beginning of very high exposure, escalating to an extreme level (UV Index 11) in June, where burn times are as short as 10 minutes. Monthly UV indices frequently remain in the very high category (UV Index 9-10) through July and August before tapering off in September. During these months, residents and visitors should take proactive measures such as wearing sunscreen, protective clothing, and limiting sun exposure, particularly between 10 AM and 4 PM. As exposure decreases in the fall and winter months, with UV Index values dropping to moderate levels (UV Index 3-5), individuals should still practice sun safety, especially on clear days.
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 |
| Alcacer do Sal | 3 | 5 | 6 | 9 | 10 | 11 | 10 | 9 | 9 | 6 | 4 | 3 |