Last updated: July 2, 2025
In Capileira, Spain, understanding the UV Index is crucial for protecting your skin from harmful sun exposure. With typically clear skies in this Csa climate, the UV levels can reach alarming heights, especially during midday, peaking at 12 between 1:00 PM and 2:00 PM. This knowledge is essential not just for sunburn prevention but also for long-term skin health. Being aware of the daily UV Index helps you take necessary precautions, ensuring you enjoy the beautiful Andalusian sun while minimizing the risks associated with excessive UV radiation. Whether you're hiking in the Sierra Nevada or basking in the sun, knowing the UV levels can make all the difference for your skin's safety!
As the sun rises, the UV Index gradually climbs, starting at a gentle 1 at 07:00 and maintaining that level through 08:00. By 09:00, it reaches 2, but the real intensity kicks in as the clock approaches midday. At 11:00, the index surges to 6, and by noon, it skyrockets to a burning 8. The peak of the day arrives between 13:00 and 14:00, where the UV Index hits a blistering 11 and 12, indicating the need for diligent sun protection. As the afternoon wanes, the intensity begins to taper off— falling to 9 at 16:00, then 7 at 17:00. By the time evening arrives, the index drops to a safer 4 at 18:00, and finally settles at 2 by 19:00, signaling a welcome respite from the sun's rays.
| Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 08:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 09:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 10:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 11:00 | 6 | high | 25 min |
| 12:00 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
| 13:00 | 11 | extreme | 10 min |
| 14:00 | 12 | extreme | 10 min |
| 15:00 | 11 | extreme | 10 min |
| 16:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 17:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 18:00 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
| 19:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
As the seasons change, so do the UV Index levels and associated risks for sun exposure. From January to February, the UV Index remains moderate (3-5), allowing for 30-minute burn times without immediate danger. However, a significant rise occurs in March through August, with very high (8-10) and extreme (11-12) levels reached, particularly in May through July, where burn times drop to just 10 minutes. September brings a slight decrease, returning to very high levels, while October and November see a moderation again, with burn times extending to 25-30 minutes. Visitors and residents should take extra precautions, especially from March to August, by seeking shade, wearing protective clothing, and applying sunscreen frequently during these high-risk months.
UV Risk Categories
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Barcelona UVI | 3 | 4 | 5 | 7 | 8 | 10 | 10 | 9 | 7 | 6 | 3 | 2 |
| Zaragoza UVI | 3 | 4 | 6 | 8 | 9 | 11 | 11 | 9 | 8 | 6 | 3 | 2 |
| Valencia UVI | 3 | 4 | 6 | 8 | 9 | 11 | 10 | 9 | 8 | 6 | 4 | 3 |
| Madrid UVI | 3 | 4 | 6 | 8 | 10 | 11 | 11 | 9 | 8 | 6 | 4 | 3 |
| Sevilla UVI | 3 | 5 | 7 | 9 | 10 | 11 | 10 | 10 | 9 | 7 | 4 | 3 |
| Capileira | 3 | 5 | 8 | 10 | 11 | 12 | 12 | 11 | 10 | 7 | 5 | 3 |