Last updated: July 2, 2025
In Elvas, Portugal, being aware of the UV Index is crucial for maintaining optimal skin health and preventing sunburn. As this historic city experiences a Csa climate, with a typically sunlit atmosphere, understanding UV levels becomes essential, especially during peak hours when the index can reach a maximum of 10 around midday. These elevated levels mean that sun protection measures are necessary to shield yourself from harmful UV radiation. By staying informed about the UV Index, residents and visitors can take proactive steps to enjoy the beautiful sun-soaked days of Elvas while safeguarding their skin against potential damage.
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!
| 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 |
As the seasons change, so do UV radiation levels, significantly impacting sun safety for residents and visitors. From January to February, the UV Index remains at a moderate level (3-4), with a burn time of 30 minutes. In March, the index rises to 6, classifying it as high, with a reduced burn time of 25 minutes. The real risk begins in April, when the UV Index skyrockets to 9 (very high), with a burn time of just 15 minutes. The peak arrives during June, where the Index reaches 11, categorized as extreme, leading to a minimal burn time of 10 minutes. This elevated risk continues through July and August, before tapering off in September to a still significant 8, and returning to high levels of 6 in October. As UV levels decline in November and December, with indices dropping back to moderate (3-4), residents and visitors should take special care from April to September, practicing sun safety measures, including using sunscreen, wearing protective clothing, and seeking shade during peak hours.
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 |
| Elvas | 3 | 4 | 6 | 9 | 10 | 11 | 10 | 10 | 8 | 6 | 4 | 3 |