Last updated: May 3, 2025
In Ballesteros, Spain, understanding the UV Index is essential for safeguarding your skin health under the sun. With peak UV levels reaching a formidable 10 during the midday hours, awareness of these fluctuations is crucial for effective sunburn prevention and long-term skin protection. The Mediterranean climate of Ballesteros means plenty of sunny days, but this also comes with increased risks of UV exposure that can lead to skin damage. Stay informed about daily UV levels to enjoy all that sunny weather offers while keeping your skin safe!
As the sun rises, the UV Index begins its steady climb, starting at a modest 1 at 7:00 AM. By 10:00 AM, it reaches a 3, signaling that the day is heating up. The midday sun really makes its presence felt at noon, when the index peaks at an impressive 8, escalating to a 10 by 2:00 PM—the pinnacle of UV intensity. While the sun begins to dip, the index gradually declines, slipping back to 6 by 5:00 PM and settling to a much more manageable 2 by 7:00 PM. It's a vivid reminder of the day's evolving sunlight spectrum, encouraging everyone to stay protected during those 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 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
| 13:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 14:00 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
| 15:00 | 10 | 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 fluctuates significantly, indicating varying levels of sun exposure risk. The high-risk months are typically from March to October, with April and May peaking at a very high index of 9 and 10, and reaching an extreme level of 12 in June and July. During these months, the risk of skin damage from sun exposure increases significantly, with recommended burn times decreasing to as little as 10 minutes. Visitors and residents are advised to take precautions by wearing protective clothing, applying sunscreen regularly, and seeking shade during peak sunlight hours, especially in the summer months. As the UV levels decline from October to February, while still moderate, it remains important to remain vigilant about sun protection during 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 |
| Ballesteros | 3 | 4 | 6 | 9 | 10 | 12 | 11 | 10 | 9 | 7 | 4 | 3 |
| Sevilla UVI | 3 | 5 | 7 | 9 | 10 | 11 | 10 | 10 | 9 | 7 | 4 | 3 |