Last updated: June 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is essential for residents and visitors in Alcaraz, Spain. With its warm Mediterranean climate, this charming town experiences peak UV levels that can reach as high as 12 during the sunniest hours, making awareness of these levels crucial for sunburn prevention and overall skin health. By keeping an eye on the UV Index, you can take proactive steps to protect yourself from harmful rays, reducing the risk of skin damage and ensuring safe outdoor enjoyment. Stay informed and embrace the sun responsibly as you explore all that Alcaraz has to offer!
As the sun rises, the UV Index begins at a mild 1 at 07:00, providing a gentle reminder to enjoy the day with minimal sun protection. However, by 10:00, the index surges to a moderate 4, alerting us to take more care during outdoor activities. The intensity peaks dramatically at 12:00, reaching a staggering 9, and by 13:00, it escalates to a maximum of 11—a critical time for sun safety. From there, the UV levels gradually decline, with readings of 12 at 14:00, 11 at 15:00, and tapering off to 4 by 18:00. As evening approaches, the index drops to a low 2 at 19:00, offering a much more forgiving environment for those looking to enjoy the outdoors as the sun sets. It's a day to be mindful and enjoy the sunny moments while taking protective measures 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 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
| 11:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 12:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 13:00 | 11 | extreme | 10 min |
| 14:00 | 12 | 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, UV exposure significantly fluctuates, with the highest risk months occurring from April to August, where the UV Index reaches levels classified as very high to extreme. Notably, June is the peak month with an extreme UV Index of 12, resulting in a burn time of just 10 minutes. As spring turns to summer, individuals should take extra precautions; wearing sunscreen, protective clothing, and seeking shade during peak hours is highly advisable. Conversely, during the winter months of January and December, the UV Index drops to 3, categorized as moderate, allowing for longer exposure times of 30 minutes without significant risk. Residents and visitors should remain vigilant in high-index months, especially from March to September, to protect their skin health while enjoying outdoor activities.
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 |
| Sevilla UVI | 3 | 5 | 7 | 9 | 10 | 11 | 10 | 10 | 9 | 7 | 4 | 3 |
| Alcaraz | 3 | 5 | 7 | 9 | 10 | 12 | 11 | 10 | 9 | 7 | 4 | 3 |