Last updated: May 3, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is essential for residents and visitors in Olot, Spain, where the combination of a Cfb climate and elevated sun exposure can lead to increased risks of sunburn and long-term skin damage. With UV levels reaching their peak at 9 around midday, awareness of daily UV fluctuations is crucial for effective sun safety. By monitoring the UV Index, you can take proactive steps to protect your skin and enjoy the beautiful Catalonian sun while minimizing health risks associated with harmful UV radiation. Whether you're hiking in the stunning natural landscapes or just enjoying a leisurely afternoon outdoors, staying informed about UV levels can help you maintain both your skin health and outdoor enjoyment.
The UV Index today paints a striking picture of sun intensity throughout the day. Starting off gentle at 1 during the early hours, the solar rays heighten sharply as the sun climbs higher, peaking at a robust 9 from 13:00 to 15:00. This is the time to embrace sun safety, as exposure can be harmful. As the afternoon wanes, the index begins to drop, returning to a more manageable 3 by 18:00 and down to 1 by nightfall. With these fluctuations, be sure to protect your skin when the sun is at its strongest, especially during the midday 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 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
| 13:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 14:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 15:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 16:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 17:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 18:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 19:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
Throughout the year, UV Index levels fluctuate significantly, creating varying exposure risks for individuals. The high-risk months for UV exposure are April through August, with the highest readings occurring in June and July, where the UV Index reaches a peak of 11, classified as extreme. During these months, the recommended burn time drops to just 10 minutes. As such, it is crucial for both visitors and residents to adopt protective measures, including wearing sunscreen, protective clothing, and limiting sun exposure during peak hours. March marks the transition to higher UV levels, with an index of 6, while September and October drop back to high and moderate levels, respectively. Ultimately, staying informed about UV levels can help safeguard health year-round.
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 |
| Olot | 3 | 4 | 6 | 8 | 9 | 11 | 11 | 9 | 8 | 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 |