On the Development of Spatial/Temporal Solar UV Irradiation Maps: A Case Study in Pernambuco State (Northeast of Brazil)

Abstract

This work summarizes recently published information on the solar UV broadband irradiation of Pernambuco, Northeast of Brazil. We describe the spatial and temporal distribution of solar UV radiation and its relationship with climatic and geographical conditions. Statistical experimental correlation between solar total irradiation and UV broadband obtained for 03 locations was generalized by the use of Koppen-Geiger Climatic criterium, which was used for mapping the spatial/temporal distribution of broadband UV. The climatological solar radiations used in the correlations were obtained by modeling through satellite and previously verified with terrestrial data. We present one map with the location of the recording stations where the statistical correlations were measured, one annual and 12 monthly contour maps describing monthly daily solar UV radiation levels throughout the territory of Pernambuco. The solar UV irradiation ("broadband") annual-average daily value in the State of Pernambuco varied from 226 to 268 Wh/m 2 . Seasonal variation of solar UV irradiation in the State of Pernambuco follows, in general and as expected, the climate, relief and seasons of the year. The highest value of monthly solar UV irradiation was observed in the central south region of the state, more precisely in Belém do São Francisco, Floresta, Ibimirim and Buíque in the month of December (summer), with 311.8 Wh/m 2 . The lower value was found in the south Agreste region, in Garanhuns and Caruaru, in the month of June (winter), with 162.2 Wh/m 2 .