Last updated: July 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors in Nerja, Spain, where sunny skies and warm temperatures often lead to elevated UV levels. Being aware of the UV Index not only helps prevent sunburn but also plays a vital role in maintaining skin health over time. With a climate characterized by hot, dry summers and mild winters, Nerja experiences significant UV exposure, peaking at 11 around midday. By staying informed about UV levels, you can enjoy the beautiful beaches and outdoor activities while protecting your skin from harmful rays—because in Nerja, sun safety should always be a priority!
The UV Index reaches its peak intensity during the midday hours, starting at 8 by noon and soaring to a maximum of 11 at 2 PM, which indicates an extremely high risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure. As the day progresses, the index gradually decreases, dropping to 6 by 5 PM and continuing to decline to 2 by 7 PM. Early risers enjoy a milder start with values of only 1 at 7 AM and 8 AM, perfect for a leisurely morning walk under gentle sun. However, as the sun ascends, it's crucial to take precautions, such as wearing sunscreen and seeking shade, especially between 11 AM and 3 PM, when the sun's rays are at their strongest. Enjoy the sun responsibly!
| 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 | 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 |
| Nerja | 3 | 5 | 7 | 9 | 10 | 11 | 11 | 10 | 9 | 7 | 4 | 3 |