Last updated: June 2, 2025
In La Orotava, Spain, being aware of the UV Index is essential for safeguarding your skin and overall health. Understanding UV levels helps in preventing sunburn and long-term skin damage, which is particularly important in this region known for its mild, temperate climate. With UV exposure peaking at 12 between noon and 2 PM, residents and visitors alike should take precautions to minimize their risk. Embrace the sun wisely to enjoy all that La Orotava has to offer while keeping your skin healthy and protected!
As the sun rises, the UV Index begins its steady climb, starting at a gentle 0 by 07:00. By 08:00, it registers a modest 1, but the real intensity kicks in by 10:00, soaring to 4. The peak arrives at 13:00, where the UV Index reaches a striking 11, indicating a high risk for harm from unprotected sun exposure. Just a notch higher, it peaks again at 14:00 with a 12. As the afternoon rolls on, the values gradually dip, tapering to 6 by 17:00 and further cooling down to 2 by 19:00. Stay vigilant and protect your skin during those midday hours, when the sun’s rays are most potent! 🌞
| Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07:00 | 0 | 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 | 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 | 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 exhibit significant seasonal changes, with the highest risks occurring from March through September. During this peak period, the UV Index reaches extreme levels of 11 to 12, particularly in April, May, June, and July, where the recommended burn time drops to as little as 10 minutes. February and October also show higher UV indices of 7 and 9, categorizing them as high and very high, respectively. Residents and visitors should take special precautions during these months, such as wearing protective clothing, applying sunscreen, and seeking shade, especially during midday when the sun's rays are most intense. Conversely, January, November, and December present moderate UV levels, with longer burn times of 30 and 25 minutes, allowing for safer outdoor activities with reasonable sun protection.
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 |
| 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 |
| La Orotava | 5 | 7 | 9 | 11 | 12 | 12 | 12 | 11 | 11 | 9 | 7 | 5 |