Last updated: August 1, 2025
In Carvoeiro, Portugal, being aware of the UV Index is essential for maintaining optimal skin health and preventing sunburn. With a Mediterranean climate characterized by sunny days, the risks of harmful UV radiation are significant, especially during peak hours. Understanding UV levels not only helps safeguard your skin but also enhances your overall outdoor experience. Between 11:00 AM and 2:00 PM, when the UV Index can soar to a maximum of 10, it’s crucial to take protective measures. Stay informed and enjoy all that Carvoeiro has to offer while keeping your skin safe from the sun’s intense rays.
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 | 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 | 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 |
As the seasons change, so do the UV index levels, with highest risks typically occurring from April to September. During these months, especially in June when the UV index reaches an extreme level of 11, the burn time is as short as 10 minutes. Visitors and residents should be particularly vigilant during this period, taking necessary precautions such as applying sunscreen with a high SPF, wearing protective clothing, and limiting sun exposure during peak hours. Conversely, during the winter months from January to March, the UV levels are substantially lower, categorized as moderate to high, allowing for safer outdoor activities with burn times ranging from 25 to 30 minutes. It’s crucial to remain aware of these seasonal changes to protect skin health throughout the year.
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 |
| Carvoeiro | 3 | 5 | 7 | 9 | 10 | 11 | 10 | 10 | 9 | 7 | 4 | 3 |