Last updated: May 3, 2025
Staying aware of the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors of Santa Maria de Ordas, Spain, especially during the sunniest months. Understanding UV levels plays a vital role in preventing sunburn and protecting skin health, particularly given the region's mild Mediterranean climate (Csb). With peak UV exposure typically occurring between 12 PM and 2 PM, when the index can reach a maximum of 10, it's important to take proactive measures to safeguard yourself from harmful rays. Whether you're enjoying outdoor activities or simply soaking in the sun, monitoring the UV Index can help ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.
The UV Index for the day starts off mild, with values of 1 at both 7:00 and 8:00 AM, indicating that sun protection is not yet a priority. As the morning progresses, the index gradually rises, reaching 2 by 9:00 AM and 3 by 10:00 AM. The real intensity kicks in around 11:00 AM, where the UV Index escalates to 5, marking the beginning of elevated sun exposure. By noon, the index spikes to 7, and peaks at 10 by 2:00 PM, signaling a period of high risk for harm from unprotected sun exposure. As the afternoon shifts, values begin to taper off, dropping to 6 by 5:00 PM, then easing to 4 by 6:00 PM, and finally closing the day at 2 by 7:00 PM. It's a clear reminder to stay protected during 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 | 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 | 10 | 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, UV Index levels exhibit significant seasonal variations, with the highest risks occurring during the spring and summer months. From March to September, the UV Index consistently remains at high to extreme levels, with the most critical months being June and July, where the UV Index peaks at 11 and 10, respectively. During these periods, the recommended burn times are notably short, ranging from 10 to 15 minutes, indicating a high likelihood of skin damage with unprotected exposure. Conversely, the winter months of January and December present low UV levels (Index 2), allowing for longer sun exposure (up to 45 minutes) without significant risk. To protect against harmful UV exposure, visitors and residents are advised to apply broad-spectrum sunscreen, wear protective clothing, and seek shade, particularly during the high-risk months from April to August.
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 |
| Santa Maria de Ordas | 2 | 4 | 6 | 8 | 10 | 11 | 10 | 9 | 8 | 6 | 3 | 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 |