Last updated: May 3, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors in Orgiva, Spain, as it provides vital information about UV radiation levels and their potential impact on skin health. With the risk of sunburn and long-term skin damage increasing significantly during peak hours, staying informed about UV levels can help individuals take the necessary precautions. Given Orgiva’s Mediterranean climate, characterized by sunny summers and mild winters, the UV exposure here can be particularly intense, reaching a maximum index of 11 during midday hours. Being aware of the UV Index not only promotes safer sun practices but also enhances overall well-being in this beautiful region.
The UV Index data for the day reveals a dynamic rise in solar intensity throughout the morning and afternoon. Starting at a mild 1 at 07:00, the index gradually climbs to 6 by 11:00. As the sun reaches its zenith, the UV Index peaks at a striking 11 at 14:00, indicating an extreme level of exposure. By 15:00, it remains high at 10, gradually decreasing to 4 by 18:00 and settling at 2 by 19:00. It's clear that midday hours present the most significant risk for skin damage; therefore, sun protection is highly recommended between 12:00 and 15:00 when the UV Index is at its peak.
| 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 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
| 14:00 | 11 | extreme | 10 min |
| 15:00 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
| 16:00 | 8 | 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, seasonal variations in the UV Index reveal significant changes in sun exposure risks. The months of May to August present the highest UV levels, categorized as extreme (11-12), with a rapid decrease in safe exposure time to just 10 minutes. April also poses a risk, with a very high index of 10 and a burn time of only 15 minutes. As such, visitors and residents should exercise extreme caution during these high-risk months by wearing protective clothing, applying sunscreen, and seeking shade during peak hours. Conversely, during the winter months of January, February, and December, the UV levels are classified as moderate (3-5), allowing for longer exposure times without immediate risk of burns. It's essential for everyone to adapt their sun protection strategies according to these seasonal changes to prioritize skin health year-round.
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 |
| Orgiva | 3 | 5 | 7 | 10 | 11 | 12 | 11 | 10 | 9 | 7 | 5 | 3 |