Last updated: May 3, 2025
In Girona, Spain, understanding the UV Index is crucial for protecting your skin from harmful ultraviolet radiation. As the sun climbs higher in the sky, so do UV levels, peaking during the midday hours, which can lead to sunburn and long-term skin health issues. With Girona's Cfa climate characterized by hot summers and moderate sun exposure, being aware of UV levels not only helps you enjoy outdoor activities safely but also ensures that you’re taking the right precautions to safeguard your skin. At peak hours, especially between noon and 2 PM, the UV Index can reach a significant level of 9, highlighting the need for effective sun protection measures. Stay informed and keep your skin safe while enjoying the beautiful weather that Girona has to offer!
As the sun rises, the UV Index starts at a maximum of 1 at 7:00 AM, indicating safe sun exposure. By 9:00 AM, it climbs to 2, suggesting that while it’s still mild, some caution is advisable. The index spikes significantly from 10:00 AM, reaching 4, and continues to rise throughout the day. At 12:00 PM, it peaks at an impressive 8, followed closely by a high of 9 at both 1:00 PM and 2:00 PM—perfect times to seek shade or lather on sunscreen! As the afternoon wanes, the UV Index gradually declines to 6 at 4:00 PM, then eases to 3 by 6:00 PM, finally dipping back down to 1 by the evening. Enjoy the sun, but remember to protect your skin during those midday highs!
| 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 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
| 13:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 14:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 15:00 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
| 16:00 | 6 | high | 25 min |
| 17:00 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
| 18:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 19:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
During the year, UV levels fluctuate significantly, with high-risk months typically occurring between April and August, when the UV Index reaches its peak at 9 to 10, corresponding to a very high exposure category and a burn time of just 15 minutes. May, June, and July are particularly critical, urging both visitors and residents to take extra precautions during outdoor activities. In contrast, January through March and November to December present moderate to low UV Index levels, giving individuals longer burn times before requiring sun protection. To minimize skin damage, it's advisable to wear sunblock, protective clothing, and hats during high UV Index periods, especially in the summer months.
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 |
| Girona | 3 | 4 | 5 | 7 | 9 | 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 |