Last updated: June 2, 2025
In Montefrío, Spain, understanding the UV Index is crucial for safeguarding your skin against harmful ultraviolet radiation. With its Mediterranean climate, this charming town experiences significant UV exposure, especially during peak hours when the index soars to 12—a level that poses serious risks for sunburn and long-term skin health. By monitoring UV levels, residents and visitors can take proactive measures to protect themselves, ensuring enjoyable outdoor activities without inviting skin damage. Stay informed and embrace the sun safely!
As the sun rises, the UV Index slowly increases, starting at a gentle 1 at 7:00 AM and 8:00 AM. By 9:00 AM, it climbs to 2, but it’s not until 10:00 AM that we see a more noticeable surge to 4. The intensity peaks magnificently at 12:00 PM, reaching an impressive 9, and then soars to its highest point of 12 at 2:00 PM. Just after, it stays strong at 11 until 3:00 PM before beginning to taper off. As the day winds down, the UV Index decreases to 4 by 6:00 PM before settling at 2 by 7:00 PM. Remember to protect your skin during those peak hours, particularly from 11:00 AM to 3:00 PM, when the sun's rays are most potent!
| 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 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
| 11:00 | 6 | high | 25 min |
| 12:00 | 9 | 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 |
Throughout the year, the UV Index demonstrates a significant seasonal variation, reflecting changes in sun exposure and related risks. During the winter months, from January to February, the indices are moderate (3-5), allowing for around 30 minutes of safe sun exposure. As spring approaches in March, the UV Index rises to 7, indicating a high risk with a burn time of just 25 minutes. The summer months, particularly May through July, present the greatest risks, with values peaking at 12 in June, categorized as extreme, where even short exposures (about 10 minutes) can lead to skin damage. As autumn returns, UV levels remain elevated in September (9), dropping to moderate levels by November and December. Visitors and residents are strongly advised to take precautions, especially from April to August, by applying sunscreen, wearing protective clothing, and seeking shade to avoid overexposure 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 |
| Montefrio | 3 | 5 | 7 | 9 | 11 | 12 | 11 | 10 | 9 | 7 | 5 | 3 |