Last updated: August 1, 2025
Understanding the UV Index in La Gineta, Spain, is essential for safeguarding your health under the sun. The UV Index is a crucial indicator that measures the strength of ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun at any given hour, helping residents and visitors alike to make informed decisions about sun exposure. With high UV levels peaking around noon, reaching a striking 11 at 14:00, awareness and proactive measures are key to preventing sunburn and maintaining skin health. Given La Gineta's Mediterranean climate, characterized by warm summers and ample sunshine, recognizing the daily UV risks can empower you to enjoy the outdoors safely while protecting yourself from harmful effects. Stay informed and keep your skin safe!
As the day unfolds, the UV Index rises dramatically, starting at a modest 1 by 07:00 and steadily climbing to a peak of 11 between 14:00 and 15:00. This surge highlights the importance of staying protected under the sun, especially from 12:00 to 15:00, when the index exceeds 8—a strong indicator of harmful UV exposure. After this midday peak, the index gradually declines, settling back to 4 by 18:00 and dipping to 2 by 19:00. Those planning outdoor activities should take precautions during the most intense hours when the sun's rays are the strongest, ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience in the sun.
| 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 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 18:00 | 3 | 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 |
| La Gineta | 3 | 5 | 6 | 9 | 10 | 12 | 11 | 10 | 9 | 7 | 4 | 3 |