Last updated: June 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is essential for residents and visitors of Pollenca, Spain, where the Mediterranean climate can result in significant sun exposure, particularly during the summer months. With UV levels reaching a peak of 10 around midday, staying informed about these ratings is crucial for sunburn prevention and maintaining overall skin health. In Pollenca, where sunshine is abundant, knowing when to seek shade or apply sunscreen can make a vital difference in protecting your skin from harmful UV radiation. Embrace a sun-smart lifestyle by monitoring the UV Index and enjoying the beautiful outdoors safely!
As the day unfolds, the UV Index rises sharply, peaking at a dramatic 10 between 1:00 PM and 2:00 PM—a clear indication that sun protection is crucial during these hours. Starting from a modest 1 at 7:00 AM, the index climbs steadily, reaching 4 by 10:00 AM. By 11:00 AM, it escalates to 7, and just before noon, it hits 9, urging outdoor enthusiasts to take cover or apply sunscreen. The afternoon sees a slight decline, with values tapering to 5 by 5:00 PM and further down to 2 as the sun sets. This dynamic pattern highlights the importance of being sun-smart, especially during the peak hours of 12:00 PM to 2:00 PM.
| 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 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
| 14:00 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
| 15:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 16:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 17:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 18:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 19:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
As the seasons change, so does the UV Index, which indicates the strength of ultraviolet radiation and the potential for skin damage. From January to March, the UV Index remains at a moderate level (3-5), allowing for longer exposure times of about 30 minutes without significant risk of sunburn. However, as April approaches, the UV Index spikes to 8, categorized as very high, and this trend continues through the summer months of May and June, reaching a peak of 10 in July. These months represent the highest risk for sunburn, where just 15 minutes of exposure can lead to skin damage. As summer wanes into August and September, the UV Index begins to decrease but remains in the very high category, emphasizing the need for caution. By October, the risk diminishes to a high level (6), and the burn time increases to 25 minutes, transitioning into the cooler months of November and December, when the UV Index falls to 4 and 2 respectively. Residents and visitors are advised to take precautions, especially during the high-risk months of April through September, by wearing sunscreen, protective clothing, and seeking shade during peak sunlight hours.
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 |
| Pollenca | 3 | 4 | 5 | 8 | 9 | 10 | 10 | 9 | 8 | 6 | 4 | 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 |