Last updated: August 1, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors of Val de San Lorenzo, Spain, where sunny days are a hallmark of its Mediterranean climate. Keeping an eye on UV levels can significantly aid in sunburn prevention and promote overall skin health, particularly during peak hours when sunlight is most intense. With the UV Index often reaching as high as 10 during midday, it's essential to be proactive about sun safety to minimize the risks of skin damage. As you enjoy the beautiful outdoors of this charming village, remember that awareness of UV exposure can help you stay safe while soaking up the sun!
As the sun rises, the UV Index begins to creep up, starting at a modest 1 at 7:00 AM and 8:00 AM. By 9:00 AM, it reaches 2, and soon after, it climbs to 3 at 10:00 AM. The real intensity hits at 11:00 AM, with the index jumping to 5. Noon marks the peak, soaring to 7, and it only intensifies from there. At 1:00 PM, the UV Index spikes to 9, and by 2:00 PM, it reaches a maximum of 10—a critical level warranting sun safety precautions. This intensity holds steady until 3:00 PM, after which the UV Index starts to decline, dropping gradually to 9 by 4:00 PM, then 7 at 5:00 PM. As the day winds down, the UV levels retreat further, settling at 5 by 6:00 PM, and ending the day with a gentle 3 at 7:00 PM. Remember, the midday sun is the strongest—stay protected!
| 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 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 11:00 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
| 12:00 | 6 | 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, 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 |
| Val de San Lorenzo | 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 |