Last updated: August 1, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors of Cihuela, Spain, where the climate invites plenty of outdoor activities. As UV levels can rise sharply during the day, particularly between 10 AM and 4 PM when the index peaks at a substantial 11, being aware of these levels is key to preventing sunburn and maintaining skin health. With its Cfb climate, Cihuela experiences moderate temperatures and sunny days that can expose you to harmful UV radiation, making it essential to stay informed and protect yourself from potential skin damage. Don't let the sun sneak up on you; be proactive about your sun safety!
As the day unfolds, the UV Index rises dramatically, starting at a modest 1 by 07:00 and steadily climbing to a peak of 11 between 14:00 and 15:00. This surge highlights the importance of staying protected under the sun, especially from 12:00 to 15:00, when the index exceeds 8—a strong indicator of harmful UV exposure. After this midday peak, the index gradually declines, settling back to 4 by 18:00 and dipping to 2 by 19:00. Those planning outdoor activities should take precautions during the most intense hours when the sun's rays are the strongest, ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience in the sun.
| 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 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 11:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 12:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 13:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 14:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 15:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 16:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 17:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 18:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 19:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
Throughout the year, UV levels fluctuate significantly, with the most intense exposure occurring from March to August. During these months, particularly in June and July, the UV Index reaches its peak at 11, categorized as extreme, with a critical burn time of just 10 minutes. These months represent high-risk periods for skin damage, necessitating vigilant sun protection. Conversely, January and February experience a moderate UV Index of 3 and 4, allowing for safer outdoor activities, though caution is still warranted. As a general guideline, residents and visitors should stay informed about the UV Index, especially during the high-risk months, and prioritize sun safety by using sunscreen, wearing protective clothing, and seeking shade during peak hours. In contrast, late fall and winter months show a gradual decline in UV levels, culminating in December's low UV Index of 2, allowing for longer exposure without significant risk of sunburn.
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 |
| Cihuela | 3 | 4 | 6 | 8 | 10 | 11 | 11 | 9 | 8 | 6 | 4 | 2 |
| 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 |