Last updated: July 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors in Oria, Spain, especially given the region's semi-arid climate (BSk) that presents unique sun exposure challenges. As the sun rises higher in the sky, UV levels can reach alarming numbers, peaking at an index of 11 around midday—indicating an extreme risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure. Awareness of these UV levels is essential for preventing sunburn and supporting long-term skin health. By knowing when to seek shade or apply sunscreen, you can enjoy Oria's beautiful outdoors while keeping your skin safe from the sun's harmful effects. Remember, it’s not just about enjoying the sunshine; it’s about doing so safely!
The UV Index shows a dynamic fluctuation throughout the day, starting at a mild 1 early in the morning (07:00 and 08:00) and gradually rising to a moderate 2 by 09:00. However, as the sun climbs higher, the intensity escalates dramatically, peaking at a striking 11 between 13:00 and 15:00—indicative of a high risk for harm from unprotected sun exposure. After reaching its zenith, the index gracefully tapers off, dropping to 9 by 16:00 and ultimately settling at a more manageable 2 by 19:00. It’s a day that demands attention to sun safety, particularly in the peak hours!
| 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 | 11 | 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, seasonal UV changes significantly impact sun exposure and skin safety. The high-risk months for UV exposure are from April to August, where the UV Index reaches extreme levels (11-12) in May and June, requiring only 10 minutes of burn time. Even in early spring, March begins to show a surge with a high UV Index of 7. As summer transitions into fall, there's a gradual decline, but September still maintains a very high level at 9, necessitating caution. Residents and visitors should take protective measures during these peak months by wearing sunscreen, protective clothing, and seeking shade, especially between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. when UV rays are strongest.
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 |
| Oria | 3 | 5 | 7 | 9 | 11 | 12 | 11 | 10 | 9 | 7 | 4 | 3 |