Last updated: June 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is essential for locals and visitors in Salou, Spain, especially as the sun can be relentless throughout the summer months. With the peak UV levels often soaring to 11 during midday, awareness of these readings is crucial for sunburn prevention and maintaining overall skin health. Salou's Mediterranean climate, characterized by warm summers and high sun exposure, can amplify the risks associated with UV radiation. By keeping track of UV levels, you can protect yourself and enjoy the beautiful beaches and vibrant culture without compromising your health.
At dawn, the UV Index starts gently, peaking at 1 by 07:00 and 08:00, making it a safe time for early morning strolls. As the day progresses, the intensity gradually increases, reaching 4 by 10:00 and soaring to a striking 9 by noon. The sun reaches its zenith around 13:00, with a blistering 10, and even escalates to an impressive 11 by 14:00—the highest point of the day. As afternoon turns to evening, the index retreats; it dips to 8 by 16:00 and further down to a moderate 3 by 18:00, offering a more comfortable environment for outdoor activities. By 19:00, the UV intensity settles at a humble 2, signalling that the sun is winding down, making way for a lovely evening.
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 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
14:00 | 11 | extreme | 10 min |
15:00 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
16:00 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
17:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
18:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
19:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
Throughout the year, the UV Index fluctuates significantly, indicating varying levels of sun exposure risk for visitors and residents. The months of April through September are particularly critical, with April peaking at a UV Index of 8 (very high) and June reaching an extreme level of 11. The high-risk months—May, June, and July—demand heightened sun protection, as the burn time during these periods is reduced to just 10-15 minutes. In contrast, the winter months of December and January feature lower UV levels, with January's Index at 3 and a burn time of 30 minutes. To stay safe, residents and visitors should wear sunscreen, protective clothing, and avoid direct sunlight during peak hours, especially from April to September.
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 |
Salou | 3 | 4 | 5 | 8 | 9 | 11 | 10 | 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 |