Last updated: June 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors of Petrola, Spain, where the sun shines brightly and the climate is characterized by a dry steppe (BSk). With UV levels peaking as high as 12 in the early afternoon, awareness of these readings can be the first line of defense against sunburn and long-term skin damage. Grasping the significance of UV levels is essential not only for skin health but also for enjoying outdoor activities safely. Given Petrola’s typical exposure risks, particularly during the sun’s peak hours, staying informed about the UV Index is vital for safeguarding your well-being while soaking up the sun.
Throughout the day, the UV Index exhibits a significant increase, peaking sharply in the early afternoon. Starting from a modest 1 at 7:00 AM, it gradually ascends to reach 12 by 2:00 PM, indicating a high risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure. The hours around 11:00 AM to 2:00 PM are especially critical, with values soaring to 11 and 12 respectively. As the afternoon progresses, the intensity begins to decline, dipping back to 6 by 5:00 PM and falling to 2 by 7:00 PM. To ensure your skin stays protected, it’s essential to take precautions during those peak hours when the sun's rays are most potent!
| 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 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 12:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 13:00 | 11 | extreme | 10 min |
| 14:00 | 12 | extreme | 10 min |
| 15:00 | 11 | extreme | 10 min |
| 16:00 | 9 | 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, UV exposure significantly fluctuates, with the highest risk months occurring from April to August, where the UV Index reaches levels classified as very high to extreme. Notably, June is the peak month with an extreme UV Index of 12, resulting in a burn time of just 10 minutes. As spring turns to summer, individuals should take extra precautions; wearing sunscreen, protective clothing, and seeking shade during peak hours is highly advisable. Conversely, during the winter months of January and December, the UV Index drops to 3, categorized as moderate, allowing for longer exposure times of 30 minutes without significant risk. Residents and visitors should remain vigilant in high-index months, especially from March to September, to protect their skin health while enjoying 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 |
| Petrola | 3 | 5 | 7 | 9 | 10 | 12 | 11 | 10 | 9 | 7 | 4 | 3 |