Last updated: June 2, 2025
In Elche de la Sierra, Spain, understanding the UV Index is crucial for protecting your skin from harmful ultraviolet rays. With high UV levels peaking around midday—reaching a maximum of 12—awareness can help you take necessary precautions against sunburn and long-term skin damage. The region’s Mediterranean climate brings warm summers and ample sunshine, amplifying the risks associated with UV exposure. By keeping an eye on the UV Index, you can enjoy the sunny days while safeguarding your skin’s health.
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, the UV Index demonstrates significant seasonal changes, with the highest risk occurring in the summer months of June and July, where the index reaches an extreme level of 12 and 11 respectively, necessitating only 10 minutes of exposure before risk of burns increases. Notably, April through September marks a period of very high to extreme UV levels, with May peaking at a UV Index of 10. Visitors and residents should exercise caution, particularly from March onwards, as the risk escalates rapidly; sunscreen application, protective clothing, and avoidance of direct sunlight during midday hours are strongly advised. Conversely, the winter months of December through February present a lower risk, with moderate UV levels, allowing for more extended outdoor activities with proper protection.
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 |
| Elche de la Sierra | 3 | 5 | 6 | 9 | 10 | 12 | 11 | 10 | 9 | 7 | 4 | 3 |