Last updated: June 2, 2025
In Castropol, Spain, being aware of the UV Index is crucial for protecting your skin and overall health. Understanding the daily UV levels helps residents and visitors alike prevent sunburn and reduce long-term skin damage, especially during peak hours when the risks are highest. With a temperate oceanic climate, Castropol experiences varying UV exposure, peaking at an index of 10 around 2 PM. Staying informed about these levels allows you to enjoy the sun safely, ensuring your outdoor activities are both enjoyable and responsible.
As the sun rises, the UV Index begins its gradual ascent, peaking at an impressive 10 between 2 PM and 3 PM. Starting at a mild 1 at 7 AM and 8 AM, the index climbs steadily, hitting 3 by 10 AM and reaching 5 by 11 AM. The afternoon sun brings the strongest rays, with a 7 at noon, then soaring to 9 at 1 PM. Caution is advised during this peak, as UV levels dip slowly in the late afternoon; at 4 PM, it drops to 9, followed by a gentle decline to a comfortable 3 by 7 PM. Remember to protect your skin during the intense midday 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 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 11:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 12:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 13:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 14:00 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
| 15:00 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
| 16:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 17:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 18:00 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
| 19:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
Throughout the year, seasonal UV changes significantly affect sun exposure safety. From January to February, the UV Index gradually increases from a low of 2 to a moderate 4, allowing for longer burn times of 45 minutes to 30 minutes, respectively. As spring progresses, March and April see the UV Index rise to high levels (6 and 7), shortening safe exposure time to 25 minutes. The summer months of May to August are particularly critical, with very high UV levels peaking at 10 in June and remaining above 8, requiring protective measures for just 15 minutes of sun exposure. In early September, the UV Index decreases to high levels again, providing a brief respite with longer burn time opportunities. As autumn settles in, the UV exposure becomes moderate in October and November, before returning to low in December, where burn times increase to 30 and 45 minutes. Visitors and residents are advised to take special precautions during the high-risk months of May, June, July, and August—including wearing sunscreen, protective clothing, and seeking shade to minimize potential skin damage.
UV Risk Categories
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Castropol | 2 | 4 | 6 | 7 | 9 | 10 | 9 | 8 | 7 | 5 | 3 | 2 |
| 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 |