Last updated: May 3, 2025
Understanding the UV Index in Gibraltar is crucial for protecting your skin and overall health, especially under the region's Mediterranean climate which brings abundant sunshine year-round. With UV levels fluctuating throughout the day, peaking at a concerning 10 between 1 PM and 3 PM, being aware of these levels empowers residents and visitors alike to take preventative measures against sunburn and long-term skin damage. As you enjoy the beautiful landscapes of Gibraltar, make it a priority to stay informed about UV exposure risks, ensuring your outdoor activities remain safe and enjoyable. Remember, when the UV Index rises, so does the importance of safeguarding your skin!
As the day unfolds, the UV Index reveals a striking pattern of increasing intensity. The morning starts off gently, with values of 0 at 07:00, gradually rising to a mild 1 by 08:00 and 09:00. However, the sun's rays intensify sharply, peaking at 10 between 14:00 and 15:00, making it crucial to protect your skin during these hours. As the afternoon wanes, the UV Index begins to taper off, dropping to 8 by 16:00, and settling to 4 by 18:00. The evening sees another decline, with a final count of 2 at 19:00. Remember, being aware of the UV Index is key to enjoying a safe and sun-smart day!
| Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07:00 | 0 | low | 45 min |
| 08:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 09:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 10:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 11:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 12:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 13:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 14:00 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
| 15:00 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
| 16:00 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
| 17:00 | 6 | high | 25 min |
| 18:00 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
| 19:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
Throughout the year, the UV Index experiences notable variations, with the highest risk months occurring from April to August. During this period, the UV Index peaks at 11 in June and July, categorizing these months as having extreme exposure levels with a burn time of just 10 minutes. In contrast, the lowest risk months are January and December, where the UV Index remains at 3, indicating a moderate risk with a burn time of 30 minutes. Visitors and residents are strongly advised to take precautions during peak months by applying sunscreen, wearing protective clothing, and seeking shade, particularly between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. to minimize the risk of sunburn and skin damage.
UV Risk Categories
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Gibraltar | 3 | 5 | 7 | 9 | 10 | 11 | 11 | 10 | 9 | 7 | 4 | 3 |