Last updated: June 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors in Maspalomas, Spain, where the sunny climate can lead to significant sun exposure risks. The UV levels can reach up to 12 during peak hours, highlighting the importance of staying informed to prevent sunburn and promote skin health. With a BSk climate known for its warm, dry conditions, Maspalomas presents unique challenges when it comes to UV radiation. By keeping an eye on the UV Index, you can enjoy the outdoors safely while protecting your skin from the harmful effects of the sun.
As the sun rises, the UV Index remains low, starting at a maximum of 0 at 7:00 AM. However, by 8:00 AM, it ticks up to 1, signaling the beginning of UV exposure. The intensity climbs steadily, hitting 4 by 10:00 AM and reaching 6 at 11:00 AM. The peak occurs at 1:00 PM, with a striking 11, shortly followed by the highest level of 12 at 2:00 PM—a time when sun protection is crucial! As afternoon turns to evening, the index gradually declines, falling to 6 by 5:00 PM and tapering off to 3 at 6:00 PM, before settling at a gentle 2 by 7:00 PM. This data highlights the importance of seeking shade and wearing sunscreen during the midday hours when UV exposure is at its peak.
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 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
19:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
Throughout the year, UV Index levels exhibit significant seasonal changes, with the high-risk months primarily occurring from March to September, when the UV Index reaches extreme levels of 11-12 and notably reduces burn times to just 10 minutes. Specifically, April and May represent the peak of UV exposure, classified as extreme, necessitating caution. In contrast, the winter months of January, February, November, and December feature a moderate UV Index of 6-7, allowing for longer exposure times of 25 minutes without immediate skin damage. Residents and visitors are strongly advised to take protective measures during the high UV index months by applying broad-spectrum sunscreen, wearing protective clothing, and seeking shade to reduce the risk of sunburn and long-term skin damage.
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 |
Maspalomas | 6 | 7 | 9 | 11 | 12 | 12 | 11 | 11 | 11 | 9 | 7 | 6 |