Last updated: August 1, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is vital for residents and visitors of San Esteban del Molar, Spain, where the Mediterranean climate can lead to significant sun exposure, especially during the summer months. With UV levels peaking around 10 PM, the risk of sunburn and long-term skin health issues increases, making awareness crucial for all outdoor activities. By familiarizing yourself with the daily UV forecast, you can take proactive steps to protect your skin from harmful rays, ensuring that your time in this beautiful region remains enjoyable and safe. Keep an eye on the UV Index, especially when planning your outings during the sunniest hours of the day!
The UV Index rises steadily throughout the morning, starting from a mild 1 at 07:00 and reaching 3 by 10:00. As the sun climbs higher, the intensity peaks dramatically at 10 between 14:00 and 15:00, indicating a high risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure. If you're out and about during this peak time, it's crucial to take precautions—think sunscreen and protective gear! As the afternoon gives way to early evening, the UV Index gradually declines, dropping to 4 by 18:00. By sunset, it's back to a more manageable 3 at 19:00, making later hours more suitable for outdoor activities without the same level of risk. Enjoy the sun wisely!
| Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07:00 | 0 | low | 45 min |
| 08:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 09:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 10:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 11:00 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
| 12:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 13:00 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
| 14:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 15:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 16:00 | 8 | 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, seasonal changes in UV Index highlight significant variations in sun exposure risk. January and December see a low UV Index of 2, allowing for safer outdoor activities with a burn time of 45 minutes. However, as spring approaches, February and March indicate a shift to moderate to high exposure, transitioning to very high levels in April and May with indices reaching 8 and 10 respectively. The peak months of June and July present an extreme UV Index of 11, underscoring the necessity for sun protection, as the burn time drops to 10 minutes. August and September maintain a very high category but begin to taper off, while October reduces to high and November returns to moderate levels. It is crucial for both residents and visitors to note that the high-risk months are from April to September, and during these months, taking precautions such as wearing sunscreen, protective clothing, and seeking shade is essential to prevent 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 |
| San Esteban del Molar | 2 | 4 | 6 | 8 | 10 | 11 | 10 | 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 |