Last updated: August 1, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors in Fontanarejo, Spain, where the sun's intensity can spike significantly, especially during the peak midday hours. Monitoring UV levels not only helps prevent painful sunburn but also plays a vital role in protecting your skin health over the long term. Given Fontanarejo's Mediterranean climate (Csa), characterized by hot, dry summers, it’s essential to be aware of potential UV exposure risks, particularly when the index climbs to extreme levels of 10 and 11 around midday. Stay informed and enjoy the sun safely!
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 exhibits significant seasonal variation, indicating fluctuating levels of sun exposure risk. High-risk months are typically from April to August, where UV Index values peak at 9 to 11, categorized as very high to extreme. April and May present a critical transition with very high levels, while June and July reach extreme levels, necessitating caution. Visitors and residents are advised to take protective measures during these peak months, including using broad-spectrum sunscreen, wearing protective clothing, and seeking shade during midday hours. In contrast, the winter months of January, February, and December show moderate levels with an Index of 3 to 4, allowing for safer outdoor activities, though protection is still recommended for prolonged exposure. As such, awareness and adjustment of sun safety practices are essential year-round, especially during the height of summer.
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 |
| Fontanarejo | 3 | 4 | 6 | 9 | 10 | 11 | 11 | 10 | 9 | 7 | 4 | 3 |
| Sevilla UVI | 3 | 5 | 7 | 9 | 10 | 11 | 10 | 10 | 9 | 7 | 4 | 3 |