Last updated: August 1, 2025
In Ballesteros de Calatrava, Spain, understanding the UV Index is crucial for promoting health and safety under the sun. With peak levels soaring as high as 11 during the hottest hours of the day, awareness of these UV ratings can significantly aid in sunburn prevention and protect against long-term skin damage. Given the region's Mediterranean climate, characterized by warm, dry summers, residents and visitors alike should stay informed about daily UV exposure risks to enjoy outdoor activities without compromising their skin health. Remember, sunscreen and smart sun practices are your best defense against harmful rays!
As the sun rises, the UV Index begins its gradual ascent, starting at a gentle 1 by 7:00 AM and maintaining that level until 9:00 AM. By 10:00 AM, it reaches a moderate 3, signaling the need for light protection. However, from 11:00 AM onward, the intensity ramps up significantly, peaking at an intense 11 by 2:00 PM. This hour marks the highest point of the day, urging everyone to take extra precautions against harmful UV rays. As the afternoon wanes, the index gradually declines, settling to a comfortable 4 by 6:00 PM and diminishing to a final 2 by 7:00 PM. Be mindful of the sun's power during peak hours to ensure a safe and enjoyable day outdoors!
| 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 | 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, the UV Index shows significant seasonal variation, impacting skin safety for both visitors and residents. January and February exhibit a moderate UV Index of 3 to 4, allowing for a burn time of 30 minutes. As we transition into March, the UV Index rises to 7 (high), shortening burn time to 25 minutes. The real concern begins in April and May, where levels peak at 9 and 10 (very high) with burn times dropping to 15 minutes. The summer months of June and July present extreme conditions, with a notable UV Index of 12 and 11, allowing only 10 minutes of safe sun exposure. Even in August and September, the Index remains high at 10 and 9 respectively. As fall approaches, October sees a decrease to 7 (high) with 25 minutes of safe exposure, while November and December return to moderate levels with an Index of 4 and 3, permitting 30 minutes of sunlight. Visitors and residents should particularly exercise caution during the high-risk months of April through September, ensuring appropriate sun protection and limiting exposure during peak hours.
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 |
| Ballesteros de Calatrava | 3 | 4 | 7 | 9 | 10 | 12 | 11 | 10 | 9 | 7 | 4 | 3 |