Last updated: July 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors in Madalena, Portugal, especially as this charming town basks in the warm Mediterranean climate. The UV Index serves as a vital indicator of sun exposure, helping to protect against harmful effects like sunburn and long-term skin damage. With a typical climate characterized by moderate temperatures, Madalena sees fluctuating UV levels throughout the day. For instance, during peak hours from 12:00 PM to 2:00 PM, the UV Index can soar to levels as high as 10, necessitating diligent sun safety practices. Staying informed about these levels can ensure that your time under the sun is enjoyable and healthy.
The UV Index peaks dramatically as the day unfolds, starting from a mild 1 at 7:00 AM and rising steadily. By 10:00 AM, it reaches 5, indicating more significant exposure risk, but it's not until 11:00 AM that it surges to 7—the sun is truly shining bright! The intensity escalates to a maximum of 10 at both 1:00 PM and 2:00 PM, marking the hours when sun protection is most crucial. As the afternoon wanes, it gradually dips, settling at 4 by 5:00 PM and returning to a safer 1 by 7:00 PM. It's essential to stay mindful of this UV trend, especially during peak hours, to protect your skin 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 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 10:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 11:00 | 7 | 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 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
| 16:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 17:00 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
| 18:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 19:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
As the seasons change, so do the UV levels, which significantly impact skin safety for both visitors and residents. The UV Index starts low in January (2) and December (2), indicating a low risk for sunburn. However, as we move into the spring and summer months, particularly from March (6) to August (9), the risk escalates, with April (8) and the peak in June (11) classified as extreme. The high-risk months are primarily from April through August, where burn times are notably short, especially in June, with only 10 minutes until skin damage occurs. It is crucial for individuals during these months to take necessary precautions, such as wearing sunscreen, protective clothing, and limiting sun exposure, especially during peak hours. As fall approaches, the UV Index gradually decreases, but awareness remains essential for safe outdoor activities.
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 |
| Madalena | 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 |