Last updated: July 2, 2025
In Fontelo, Portugal, being aware of the UV Index is vital for protecting your skin and maintaining overall health. Understanding UV levels is essential for preventing sunburn and reducing the risk of long-term skin damage, as exposure to high UV radiation can have serious implications for your well-being. With a Mediterranean climate characterized by sunny summers and significant UV exposure risks, especially midday when the index peaks at 10, residents and visitors alike should stay informed. By keeping a close eye on the UV Index, you can enjoy the beautiful Portuguese sun while prioritizing your skin’s health and safety.
The UV Index for the day showcases a striking ascent in intensity, peaking during the afternoon hours. Starting from a low of 1 at 07:00 and 08:00, the index swiftly climbs to reach 3 by 09:00. By 10:00, it escalates to a moderate 5, but the real surge occurs between 11:00 and 14:00, hitting a maximum of 10—indicating a high risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure. As the day progresses, the UV Index gradually drops, retracting to 4 by 17:00 and further declining to 1 by 19:00. It's crucial to stay protected 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 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 19:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
The UV Index shows significant seasonal variation, with highest levels occurring during the summer months. From April to August, UV Index values reach their peak, particularly in June with an extreme index of 11, making it crucial for individuals to take precautions during these high-risk months. In comparison, winter months like January and December exhibit lower UV exposure, classified as moderate to low, where burn time can extend up to 45 minutes. Visitors and residents alike should be vigilant during March (UV 6) and the late spring to summer months, ensuring protection through sunscreen, clothing, and seeking shade, especially during peak hours when burn times decrease significantly.
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 |
| Fontelo | 3 | 4 | 6 | 9 | 10 | 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 |