Last updated: June 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors of Olhao, Portugal, especially given its sunny Mediterranean climate. With UV levels reaching their peak between 11:00 AM and 2:00 PM, awareness of these levels is essential for preventing sunburn and protecting skin health. In Olhao, where outdoor activities are abundant and sun exposure is common, knowing the UV Index helps you take proactive measures to safeguard your skin. Whether it's seeking shade during the hottest hours or applying adequate sunscreen, staying informed plays a vital role in enjoying the beautiful weather while minimizing risks.
The UV Index throughout the day reveals a fascinating journey of sun exposure. Starting at a gentle level of 1 at 07:00 and 08:00, the index begins to rise steadily, hitting 3 by 09:00. As the sun reaches its peak, the intensity escalates dramatically, soaring to 10 at noon and peaking at 11 from 13:00 to 14:00—ideal for sun protection measures! The afternoon sees a gradual decline, with values dropping to 9 at 15:00, then further diminishing to 2 by 18:00, and finally settling back at 1 by 19:00. Whether lounging in the sun or engaging in outdoor activities, awareness of this UV landscape is essential for safe enjoyment!
| 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 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
| 12:00 | 10 | 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 | 5 | 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 |
| Olhao | 3 | 5 | 7 | 9 | 10 | 11 | 10 | 10 | 9 | 7 | 4 | 3 |