UV Index in El Cotillo, Spain

Last updated: May 3, 2025

Understanding the UV Index in El Cotillo, Spain is crucial for protecting your skin and overall health in this sun-soaked paradise. With maximum UV levels peaking at 12 during the midday hours, it's essential to be aware of the potential for sunburn, skin damage, and long-term health risks. Situated in a BWh climate zone, El Cotillo experiences intense sun exposure, especially from late morning to early afternoon. By keeping an eye on the UV Index, residents and visitors can enjoy the beautiful beaches and clear skies while safeguarding their skin against harmful radiation.

Hourly UV Index in El Cotillo

The UV Index throughout the day showcases a compelling trend in sun exposure levels. Starting with a maximum of 1 at 07:00 and 08:00, the index rises steadily, reaching 2 by 09:00. As the sun climbs higher, it peaks dramatically at 12 by 14:00, indicating a significantly heightened risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure. However, as the afternoon wanes, the UV levels gradually drop, falling to 5 by 17:00 and further declining to 1 by 19:00. This data highlights the importance of sun protection, especially during peak hours between 11:00 and 15:00, when the index hits its highest values, urging us to take extra precautions.

Average solar exposure data for the current time of the year. Actual values may vary and depend on many factors, such as cloud cover, vegetation cover, surface type, etc.
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	12	extreme	10 min
15:00	11	extreme	10 min
16:00	8	very high	15 min
17:00	5	moderate	30 min
18:00	3	moderate	30 min
19:00	1	low	45 min

Monthly UV Index Trends in El Cotillo

As the year progresses, UV exposure varies significantly, with notable increases during the spring and summer months. The high-risk months for UV exposure are March through October, peaking in May and June when the UV Index reaches an extreme level of 12, allowing for a burn time of only 10 minutes. Conversely, from January to February and November to December, the UV levels are moderate to high, offering longer burn times of 25 to 30 minutes. Visitors and residents are advised to take precautions, especially between March and September, by wearing protective clothing, applying sunscreen frequently, and seeking shade during peak hours to minimize the risk of sunburn and long-term skin damage.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for El Cotillo, Spain

The monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) represents the highest UV radiation level recorded each month in El Cotillo. It measures the strength of ultraviolet radiation from the sun and helps assess the risk of sunburn and UV-related health issues.

Data source: Statistical UV Index data for El Cotillo, based on information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

UV Risk Categories

Extreme (11+): Avoid the sun, stay in shade.
Very High (8-10): Limit sun exposure.
High (6-7): Use SPF 30+ and protective clothing.
Moderate (3-5): Midday shade recommended.
Low (0-2): No protection needed.

Compare El Cotillo UV Index with Other Spain Cities

The table above highlights how UV exposure in El Cotillo compares to other major locations across Spain. This comparison helps travelers and residents better understand regional sun intensity and plan outdoor activities with sun safety in mind.

El Cotillo's solar exposure compared to other cities in Spain. Generated using Copernicus Atmosphere Monitoring Service information.
	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
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
El Cotillo	5	6	9	10	12	12	11	11	10	8	6	5