Last updated: June 2, 2025
In Zumaia, Spain, understanding the UV Index is crucial for protecting your skin and overall health. As a coastal town with a Cfb climate, Zumaia experiences varied sun exposure throughout the day, peaking with UV levels that can reach a significant 10 during midday. Being aware of these levels helps residents and visitors alike prevent sunburn and reduce the risk of long-term skin damage. By checking the UV Index regularly, you can enjoy the sun responsibly while safeguarding your skin against its harmful effects in this beautiful sunshine-friendly locale.
As the day unfolds, the UV Index showcases its gradual rise, peaking during the midday sun. Starting at a mild 1 at 07:00, it climbs steadily, reaching 2 by 09:00, signaling the onset of more vibrant sunlight. The intensity escalates, hitting 4 by 10:00, and then surging to 6 at 11:00. 12:00 marks a pivotal moment as the UV Index reaches 8, intensifying even further to a striking 10 from 13:00 to 15:00, indicating a very high risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure. As the afternoon progresses, the index gently dips, falling to 8 at 16:00, 6 by 17:00, and tapering off to 4 at 18:00, before retreating to a moderate 2 by 19:00. This hourly portrait invites us to embrace the sun's warmth wisely, reminding us to prioritize protection during the peak hours when the UV Index soars.
| 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 | 10 | very high | 15 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 changes in UV exposure highlight significant fluctuations in the UV Index. The months of May through August are particularly high-risk, with UV Index values reaching a peak of 10, indicating very high exposure and a burn time of only 15 minutes. Visitors and residents should remain vigilant during these months, employing protective measures such as sunscreen and clothing, especially between 10 AM and 4 PM when UV exposure is strongest. March and April also show increased risk with UV Index values of 6 and 7 respectively. Conversely, January and December present lower risk levels, with UV Index values of 2 indicating low exposure and longer potential burn times of 45 minutes. It is essential to monitor UV levels year-round and adjust sun protection strategies accordingly to ensure safety.
UV Risk Categories
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Zumaia | 2 | 4 | 6 | 7 | 9 | 10 | 10 | 9 | 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 |