Last updated: July 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is essential for residents and visitors in Malaga, Spain, where the sun shines bright and the Mediterranean climate creates ideal conditions for outdoor activities. With UV levels peaking at a risk level of 11 in the early afternoon, being aware of these levels is crucial for effectively preventing sunburn and promoting long-term skin health. As Malaga experiences a Csa climate, characterized by hot summers and mild winters, individuals must remain vigilant about UV exposure risks, particularly during the summer months. Stay informed and take proactive steps to protect your skin while enjoying the sunny shores of this beautiful city!
The UV Index data reveals a fascinating glimpse into the sun's intensity throughout the day. Starting at 07:00, the index registers a 0, indicating a safe environment for outdoor activities. As the morning progresses, it gradually climbs: 08:00 shows a 1, and by 09:00, it reaches 2. The index peaks dramatically at 14:00 with an impressive 11, marking the sun's most potent hours. After this zenith, values begin to taper off, dipping to 9 by 16:00, then further falling to 6 at 17:00. As the evening approaches, the levels decline to 4 at 18:00 and drop to 2 by 19:00. This data underscores the importance of sun safety during peak hours, particularly between 12:00 and 15:00, where protective measures are essential.
| Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07:00 | 0 | low | 45 min |
| 08:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 09:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 10:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 11:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 12:00 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
| 13:00 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
| 14:00 | 11 | extreme | 10 min |
| 15:00 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
| 16:00 | 9 | 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 | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 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 |
| Malaga | 3 | 5 | 7 | 9 | 10 | 11 | 11 | 10 | 9 | 7 | 4 | 3 |