UV Index in Porto Covo, Portugal

Last updated: May 3, 2025

Understanding the UV Index in Porto Covo, Portugal is crucial for safeguarding your skin and enjoying the sun responsibly. As this picturesque coastal town experiences a Mediterranean climate (Csa), residents and visitors alike should be aware of the varying UV levels throughout the day. With peak UV Index readings reaching 10 around midday, awareness is key to preventing sunburn and long-term skin damage. By staying informed about daily UV exposure risks, you can protect yourself and make the most of Porto Covo's stunning beaches and sunny afternoons.

Hourly UV Index in Porto Covo

The UV Index chart reveals a dynamic daily pattern of solar intensity. Starting early in the day, the UV Index remains low, peaking at 1 by 08:00. However, as the sun reaches its zenith, the index surges dramatically—hitting 7 by 11:00 and soaring to a maximum of 10 between 13:00 and 14:00. This signals a critical window for sun exposure, where protection is essential. As the afternoon progresses, the UV levels begin to decline, dropping to 4 by 17:00, before tapering off to 1 again by evening. To stay safe, it's vital to be cautious during those peak hours!

Average solar exposure data for the current time of the year. Actual values may vary and depend on many factors, such as cloud cover, vegetation cover, surface type, etc.
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	4	moderate	30 min
18:00	2	low	45 min
19:00	1	low	45 min

Monthly UV Index Trends in Porto Covo

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.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Porto Covo, Portugal

The monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) represents the highest UV radiation level recorded each month in Porto Covo. It measures the strength of ultraviolet radiation from the sun and helps assess the risk of sunburn and UV-related health issues.

Data source: Statistical UV Index data for Porto Covo, based on information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

UV Risk Categories

Extreme (11+): Avoid the sun, stay in shade.
Very High (8-10): Limit sun exposure.
High (6-7): Use SPF 30+ and protective clothing.
Moderate (3-5): Midday shade recommended.
Low (0-2): No protection needed.

Compare Porto Covo UV Index with Other Portugal Cities

The table above highlights how UV exposure in Porto Covo compares to other major locations across Portugal. This comparison helps travelers and residents better understand regional sun intensity and plan outdoor activities with sun safety in mind.

Porto Covo's solar exposure compared to other cities in Portugal. Generated using Copernicus Atmosphere Monitoring Service information.
	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
Porto Covo	3	5	6	9	10	11	10	10	9	7	4	3