Last updated: June 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors of Fuente de Santa Cruz, Spain, especially given the region's distinct climate. Awareness of UV levels can significantly mitigate the risk of sunburn and long-term skin health issues. With peak UV Index values soaring as high as 11 around midday, it's essential to recognize that even on seemingly mild sunny days, exposure can lead to harmful effects. The temperate oceanic climate typically brings extended periods of sunshine, amplifying the significance of staying informed about UV exposure risks to protect your skin throughout the year.
The UV Index shows a dynamic fluctuation throughout the day, starting at a mild 1 early in the morning (07:00 and 08:00) and gradually rising to a moderate 2 by 09:00. However, as the sun climbs higher, the intensity escalates dramatically, peaking at a striking 11 between 13:00 and 15:00—indicative of a high risk for harm from unprotected sun exposure. After reaching its zenith, the index gracefully tapers off, dropping to 9 by 16:00 and ultimately settling at a more manageable 2 by 19:00. It’s a day that demands attention to sun safety, particularly in the peak hours!
| 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 | 6 | high | 25 min |
| 12:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 13:00 | 11 | extreme | 10 min |
| 14:00 | 11 | extreme | 10 min |
| 15:00 | 11 | extreme | 10 min |
| 16:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 17:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 18:00 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
| 19:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
Throughout the year, seasonal variations in the UV Index indicate a significant shift in sun exposure risks. From January to February, UV levels remain in the moderate category, with a burn time of 30 minutes. However, as spring begins in March, the index rises to high, necessitating shorter exposure times of 25 minutes. The most critical months for UV exposure are April through August, where the index peaks at extreme levels of 11 in June and July, offering burn times as brief as 10 minutes. After this peak, UV levels gradually decline but remain very high until September. As temperatures cool into October and beyond, the risk decreases, with November and December reflecting moderate and low exposure risks respectively. Visitors and residents are advised to take precautions, especially during the high-risk months of April, May, June, and July, by seeking shade, wearing protective clothing, and applying sunscreen regularly to mitigate the risks 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 |
| Fuente de Santa Cruz | 3 | 4 | 7 | 9 | 10 | 11 | 11 | 10 | 8 | 6 | 4 | 2 |
| Sevilla UVI | 3 | 5 | 7 | 9 | 10 | 11 | 10 | 10 | 9 | 7 | 4 | 3 |