Last updated: May 3, 2025
In Costacabana, Spain, understanding the UV Index is crucial for protecting your skin from harmful ultraviolet rays, especially during the sun-soaked summer months. With a Mediterranean climate characterized by warm, sunny days, the UV levels can soar, peaking at a dangerous 10 around midday. This highlights the importance of being aware of the UV index, as it plays a vital role in preventing sunburns and promoting overall skin health. By staying informed about the daily UV exposure risks, residents and visitors can enjoy the beautiful Costa del Sol safely while safeguarding their skin against long-term damage.
As the sun rises, the UV Index gradually ascends, starting from a modest 1 at 07:00 and reaching its peak at 14:00 with a formidable 10. The day progresses with a sharp increase in UV exposure, particularly between 11:00 and 13:00, where it surges to 6 and then 9. After hitting its zenith, the index begins to decline, dipping to 5 by 17:00 and further falling to 2 by 19:00. This dynamic pattern highlights the importance of sun safety during the midday hours, especially when the UV index is at its highest. Remember to apply sunscreen and seek shade when the sun is at its strongest!
| 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 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 14:00 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
| 15:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 16:00 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
| 17:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 18:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 19:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
The UV Index experiences significant variation throughout the year, with peak intensity occurring in the summer months. Between April and August, the index rises sharply, reaching an extreme level of 11 in both June and July, indicating a high-risk period for skin damage with a burn time of just 10 minutes. Visitors and residents should be particularly cautious during these months, employing protective measures such as wearing sunscreen, hats, and protective clothing. As the season shifts towards September and October, the UV Index gradually decreases to 7 and 5 respectively, allowing for longer exposure times of 25 to 30 minutes without significant risk. It’s essential to remain vigilant and adjust sun safety practices accordingly, particularly during the high-risk months from April through August.
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 |
| Costacabana | 3 | 5 | 6 | 8 | 10 | 11 | 11 | 9 | 9 | 7 | 4 | 3 |
| Sevilla UVI | 3 | 5 | 7 | 9 | 10 | 11 | 10 | 10 | 9 | 7 | 4 | 3 |