UV Index in Silves, Portugal

Last updated: May 3, 2025

Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors in Silves, Portugal, where sunny days are abundant. With the Mediterranean climate bringing warm summers, awareness of UV levels plays an essential role in preventing sunburn and maintaining long-term skin health. During peak hours, typically between 11 AM and 3 PM, UV Index values can soar to 10, indicating very high risk for harm from unprotected sun exposure. By keeping track of the UV Index, you can enjoy Silves' beautiful outdoor attractions while safeguarding your skin against harmful ultraviolet rays.

Hourly UV Index in Silves

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 Silves

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.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Silves, Portugal

The monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) represents the highest UV radiation level recorded each month in Silves. 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 Silves, 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 Silves UV Index with Other Portugal Cities

The table above highlights how UV exposure in Silves 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.

Silves'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
Silves	3	5	7	9	10	11	10	10	9	7	4	3