Last updated: June 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors of Andorra, a beautiful region nestled in the Pyrenees. With a climate characterized by mild summers and snowy winters, Andorra’s elevation also increases its UV radiation exposure, making sun awareness essential. Knowing UV levels can help prevent sunburn and protect skin health, with peak indexes soaring to 11 during midday hours in the summer months. By staying informed about daily UV fluctuations, you can enjoy the stunning landscapes while safeguarding your skin from excessive sun damage.
As the sun rises, the UV Index slowly awakens, beginning at a mild 1 at 07:00 and barely climbing to 2 by 09:00. However, as the day progresses, the intensity ramps up dramatically, peaking at a striking 11 between 13:00 and 14:00—a reminder of the sun's power. From 10 at 15:00 to 4 by 18:00, we see a gradual decline, highlighting the need for sun protection during midday hours when the index is at its highest. As light fades into the evening, the UV Index drops back to a gentler 2 by 19:00, offering a moment of respite. Enjoy those early hours, but remember to stay shaded when the sun is at its zenith!
| 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 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 12:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 13:00 | 11 | extreme | 10 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 |
The UV Index experience varies significantly throughout the year, with notable seasonal changes influencing exposure risks. From January to February, the UV Index remains moderate (3-4), requiring about 30 minutes for burn onset. However, as spring approaches in March (UV Index 6), the risk escalates to high, with a reduced burn time of 25 minutes. The summer months, particularly June and July, present the highest risk, reaching an extreme level with a UV Index of 11, where skin can burn in as little as 10 minutes. May and August follow closely with very high levels (9), while September and October see a return to high levels (8-6). As the year winds down, November and December drop to moderate and low categories, with burn times extending to 30-45 minutes. As such, visitors and residents should take extra precautions during high-risk months, particularly from March through September, by applying sunscreen, wearing protective clothing, and seeking shade during peak hours to minimize UV exposure.
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 |
| Andorra | 3 | 4 | 6 | 8 | 9 | 11 | 11 | 9 | 8 | 6 | 4 | 2 |
| 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 |