Last updated: July 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is vital for residents and visitors in Val de San Martin, Spain, where the Alpine climate brings both beauty and potential sun exposure risks. As UV levels can peak between noon and early afternoon, being aware of these fluctuations is essential for preventing sunburn and maintaining long-term skin health. With the UV Index reaching as high as 11 on sunny days, taking precautions is key to enjoying the outdoors safely. Whether you're exploring the picturesque landscapes or soaking up the sun, knowing how to protect yourself against harmful rays can make all the difference.
As the day unfolds, the UV Index rises dramatically, starting at a modest 1 by 07:00 and steadily climbing to a peak of 11 between 14:00 and 15:00. This surge highlights the importance of staying protected under the sun, especially from 12:00 to 15:00, when the index exceeds 8—a strong indicator of harmful UV exposure. After this midday peak, the index gradually declines, settling back to 4 by 18:00 and dipping to 2 by 19:00. Those planning outdoor activities should take precautions during the most intense hours when the sun's rays are the strongest, ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience in the sun.
| 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 | 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, UV levels fluctuate significantly, with the most intense exposure occurring from March to August. During these months, particularly in June and July, the UV Index reaches its peak at 11, categorized as extreme, with a critical burn time of just 10 minutes. These months represent high-risk periods for skin damage, necessitating vigilant sun protection. Conversely, January and February experience a moderate UV Index of 3 and 4, allowing for safer outdoor activities, though caution is still warranted. As a general guideline, residents and visitors should stay informed about the UV Index, especially during the high-risk months, and prioritize sun safety by using sunscreen, wearing protective clothing, and seeking shade during peak hours. In contrast, late fall and winter months show a gradual decline in UV levels, culminating in December's low UV Index of 2, allowing for longer exposure without significant risk of sunburn.
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 |
| Val de San Martin | 3 | 4 | 6 | 8 | 10 | 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 |