Last updated: June 2, 2025
In Piedrabuena, Spain, understanding the UV Index is essential for maintaining skin health and preventing painful sunburns. With the region’s Mediterranean climate characterized by hot, dry summers, residents and visitors are exposed to varying UV levels throughout the day. Notably, during peak hours between 12:00 PM and 3:00 PM, the UV Index can reach a high of 11, indicating an extreme risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure. Being aware of these levels allows everyone to take proactive measures, ensuring that sun safety is a priority while enjoying the beautiful Spanish outdoors.
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 |
Throughout the year, the UV Index exhibits significant seasonal variation, indicating fluctuating levels of sun exposure risk. High-risk months are typically from April to August, where UV Index values peak at 9 to 11, categorized as very high to extreme. April and May present a critical transition with very high levels, while June and July reach extreme levels, necessitating caution. Visitors and residents are advised to take protective measures during these peak months, including using broad-spectrum sunscreen, wearing protective clothing, and seeking shade during midday hours. In contrast, the winter months of January, February, and December show moderate levels with an Index of 3 to 4, allowing for safer outdoor activities, though protection is still recommended for prolonged exposure. As such, awareness and adjustment of sun safety practices are essential year-round, especially during the height of summer.
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 |
| Piedrabuena | 3 | 4 | 6 | 9 | 10 | 11 | 11 | 10 | 9 | 7 | 4 | 3 |
| Sevilla UVI | 3 | 5 | 7 | 9 | 10 | 11 | 10 | 10 | 9 | 7 | 4 | 3 |