Last updated: June 2, 2025
In Guadalajara, Spain, understanding the UV Index is crucial for protecting your skin from harmful sun exposure. With a Mediterranean climate that boasts plenty of sunshine, the risk of sunburn and long-term skin damage increases, particularly during peak hours. Knowledge of UV levels—indicated by a scale ranging from low to extreme—empowers residents and visitors alike to take proactive measures. For instance, during the hottest parts of the day, UV Index readings can soar to 11, signaling a higher risk of harm. By staying informed and adjusting outdoor activities accordingly, you can safeguard your skin health while enjoying the beautiful weather that Guadalajara has to offer.
The UV Index shows a dynamic fluctuation throughout the day, starting at a mild 1 early in the morning (07:00 and 08:00) and gradually rising to a moderate 2 by 09:00. However, as the sun climbs higher, the intensity escalates dramatically, peaking at a striking 11 between 13:00 and 15:00—indicative of a high risk for harm from unprotected sun exposure. After reaching its zenith, the index gracefully tapers off, dropping to 9 by 16:00 and ultimately settling at a more manageable 2 by 19:00. It’s a day that demands attention to sun safety, particularly in the 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 | 6 | high | 25 min |
| 12:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 13:00 | 11 | extreme | 10 min |
| 14:00 | 11 | 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 |
The UV Index shows significant seasonal variation, with the highest values occurring during the summer months. From March to August, the UV Index climbs from 6 in March to a peak of 11 in both June and July, indicating extreme exposure risks and a burn time as short as 10 minutes. April and May also present very high risks, with indices of 9 and 10, respectively. In contrast, the UV Index drops to moderate levels during the winter months, specifically in January, February, and November, with values ranging from 2 to 4, where burn times extend from 30 to 45 minutes. As such, it is crucial for visitors and residents to exercise extra caution during the high-risk months of April to August, by wearing sunscreen, hats, and protective clothing, and limiting outdoor activities during peak sun hours to avoid harmful solar exposure.
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 |
| Guadalajara | 3 | 4 | 6 | 9 | 10 | 11 | 11 | 10 | 8 | 6 | 4 | 2 |
| Sevilla UVI | 3 | 5 | 7 | 9 | 10 | 11 | 10 | 10 | 9 | 7 | 4 | 3 |