Last updated: May 3, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is essential for residents and visitors in Vega de San Mateo, Spain, where the sun’s rays can be particularly intense. With a typical climate of the BWh zone, the UV levels can reach a maximum of 12 by early afternoon, making awareness crucial for preventing sunburn and maintaining skin health. By keeping an eye on UV levels, you can protect yourself from harmful effects of overexposure, allowing you to fully enjoy the beautiful outdoor opportunities this region has to offer, while safeguarding your skin against long-term damage. Stay informed and stay safe!
As the sun rises, the UV Index begins its gradual ascent, starting the day at a cool 0 at 7:00 AM. By 8:00 AM, it nudges up to 1, offering a hint of UV exposure. However, it's from 10:00 AM onwards that the intensity ramps up, peaking at a striking 12 at 2:00 PM. Nature lovers should be cautious during this time, as the index soars from 9 at midday to 11 by 1:00 PM, signaling a need for sunscreen and protective clothing. As the afternoon wanes, the UV levels decline—dropping to 6 by 5:00 PM and settling at 1 by 7:00 PM. This data highlights the importance of sun safety, especially during the 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 | 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 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 17:00 | 6 | high | 25 min |
| 18:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 19:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
The UV Index experiences significant seasonal variation, peaking during the warmer months. From January (UV Index 5) to February (UV Index 7), conditions gradually worsen, signaling the approach of higher UV exposure. The months of March through September present the highest risk, with UV Index values reaching 12 in May and June, categorizing these months as extreme. Residents and visitors are advised to take extra precautions during these high-risk months, using sunscreen, wearing protective clothing, and seeking shade especially during peak sun hours. As the year progresses into October (UV Index 9) and November (UV Index 7), UV levels begin to decline, allowing for safer outdoor activities in the cooler months of December and January (UV Index 5). Always stay informed and protect your skin from harmful UV radiation!
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 |
| Vega de San Mateo | 5 | 7 | 9 | 11 | 12 | 12 | 11 | 11 | 11 | 9 | 7 | 5 |