Last updated: May 3, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors of Santafe, Spain, where the sun can be both a source of joy and a cause for concern. With a climate characterized by hot summers and mild winters, the region experiences significant UV exposure, particularly during peak hours. As UV levels soar to a maximum of 11 around midday, awareness of these fluctuations is essential in preventing sunburn and protecting skin health. By staying informed about UV levels, you can enjoy the beautiful Santafe sunshine while safeguarding your skin against the harmful effects of ultraviolet radiation.
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 |
| Santafe | 3 | 5 | 7 | 10 | 11 | 12 | 11 | 10 | 9 | 7 | 5 | 3 |