Last updated: May 3, 2025
In Arco da Calheta, Portugal, staying informed about the UV Index is crucial for protecting your skin and overall health. Understanding UV levels helps you take proactive measures against sunburn, skin aging, and even more serious health issues. With its mild maritime climate and plenty of sunshine, Arco da Calheta experiences varying UV exposure throughout the day, peaking with an index of 11 around noon. Being aware of these levels allows residents and visitors alike to enjoy the beautiful outdoors while minimizing their risks.
As the sun rises, the UV Index begins its steady ascent. At 07:00, it starts at a tranquil 0, but by 08:00, it nudges up to 1, signaling the need for a bit of caution. The climb continues, reaching 2 by 09:00, and quickly ramps up to 3 by 10:00. The real intensity hits at 11:00, with a spike to 6, and by 12:00, it soars to 8. The peak occurs at 13:00 with a striking 10, making midday the most sun-sensitive time. It escalates slightly to 11 at 14:00, before gradually tapering off to 10 at 15:00. By late afternoon, the UV Index drops to 8 at 16:00, 6 at 17:00, and settles down to 3 by 18:00. As the day fades, it continues to decline, ending at a gentle 2 by 19:00. This pattern shows the importance of sun safety during those peak hours!
| Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07:00 | 0 | low | 45 min |
| 08:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 09:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 10:00 | 3 | 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 | 11 | extreme | 10 min |
| 15:00 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
| 16:00 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
| 17:00 | 6 | high | 25 min |
| 18:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 19:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
Throughout the year, the UV Index demonstrates significant seasonal variation, with high-risk months primarily occurring from March to August when values reach their peak. Notably, May through July feature extreme UV Index levels (11-12), with a burn time as short as 10 minutes. This indicates that during these months, individuals should take extra precautions, such as wearing sunscreen, protective clothing, and seeking shade during peak sun hours. Conversely, in January and December, with a moderate UV Index of 4, burn times extend to 30 minutes, suggesting lower risk for sunburn. Visitors and residents are encouraged to remain vigilant and adjust their sun exposure habits in accordance with these fluctuations throughout the year to protect their skin health.
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 |
| Arco da Calheta | 4 | 6 | 8 | 10 | 11 | 12 | 11 | 11 | 10 | 8 | 6 | 4 |