Last updated: May 3, 2025
In Mentrida, Spain, staying informed about the UV Index is crucial for sun safety and skin health. As residents bask in the warm Mediterranean climate, understanding the daily fluctuations in UV levels is vital for preventing sunburn and long-term skin damage. With peak UV Index values reaching 10 during the midday hours, it's essential for locals and visitors alike to take protective measures. By being aware of these risks and actively managing sun exposure, you can enjoy the beautiful Spanish sun while safeguarding your skin.
As the sun rises, the UV Index begins its steady climb, starting at a modest 1 at 7:00 AM. By 10:00 AM, it reaches a 3, signaling that the day is heating up. The midday sun really makes its presence felt at noon, when the index peaks at an impressive 8, escalating to a 10 by 2:00 PM—the pinnacle of UV intensity. While the sun begins to dip, the index gradually declines, slipping back to 6 by 5:00 PM and settling to a much more manageable 2 by 7:00 PM. It's a vivid reminder of the day's evolving sunlight spectrum, encouraging everyone to stay protected during those 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 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 11:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 12:00 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
| 13:00 | 9 | 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 experiences significant seasonal fluctuations, impacting sun safety for both visitors and residents. High-risk months occur from March through August, where the UV Index reaches high to extreme levels, particularly peaking at 11 in June and July, making protection essential. During these months, the recommended burn time decreases sharply to as little as 10 minutes, indicating the urgent need for sunscreen, hats, and protective clothing. In contrast, the winter months of January through February, and November through December present a lower risk with moderate exposure levels, allowing for a more leisurely enjoyment of sun exposure with 30-minute burn times. Residents and visitors are advised to remain vigilant regardless of the season and to adapt sun protection measures accordingly, especially when UV levels rise.
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 |
| Mentrida | 3 | 4 | 7 | 9 | 10 | 11 | 11 | 9 | 8 | 6 | 4 | 3 |
| Sevilla UVI | 3 | 5 | 7 | 9 | 10 | 11 | 10 | 10 | 9 | 7 | 4 | 3 |