Last updated: May 3, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is essential for residents and visitors in Herencia, Spain, a town known for its warm, semi-arid climate (BSk) that often sees high levels of sun exposure. Being aware of UV levels not only helps in preventing unpleasant sunburn but also plays a crucial role in maintaining long-term skin health. With peak UV Index readings reaching 10 around midday, it's important to stay informed about sun safety measures to protect yourself from harmful ultraviolet rays. So whether you're enjoying outdoor activities or just soaking up the sun, knowing the UV Index can help you enjoy Herencia’s beautiful weather safely!
As the day progresses, the UV Index rises steadily, starting at a low of 1 at 7:00 AM and 8:00 AM. By 9:00 AM, it nudges up to 2, but the real surge begins around 10:00 AM when it reaches 3. The peak UV intensity occurs between 12:00 PM and 2:00 PM, with a striking 10 at both 1:00 PM and 2:00 PM, indicating a high potential for skin damage without protection. Fortunately, the index starts to decline slightly after 3:00 PM, dropping to 8 at 4:00 PM and gradually decreasing to 2 by 7:00 PM. It's crucial to stay sun-smart during the midday hours when the UV rays are at their strongest!
| 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 | 6 | high | 25 min |
| 12:00 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
| 13:00 | 10 | 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 |
| Sevilla UVI | 3 | 5 | 7 | 9 | 10 | 11 | 10 | 10 | 9 | 7 | 4 | 3 |
| Herencia | 3 | 4 | 6 | 9 | 10 | 12 | 11 | 10 | 9 | 7 | 4 | 3 |