Last updated: July 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors in Vielha, Spain, especially given the region's high altitude and sunny disposition. Being aware of UV levels helps in preventing sunburns and protecting your skin's health, allowing you to enjoy the beautiful outdoors safely. With a climate classified as Cfb, Vielha experiences notable UV exposure peaks, particularly between 12:00 PM and 3:00 PM, when readings can rise to 11—a level that significantly increases risk. Keeping track of the UV Index can ensure that you enjoy the sun responsibly while safeguarding your skin.
As the sun rises, the UV Index starts off mild, peaking at 1 by 8:00 AM. However, things heat up quickly! By 10:00 AM, it surges to 4, reaching 6 at 11:00 AM. The afternoon sun really cranks it up, hitting a maximum of 11 at 2:00 PM, making this the moment when protective measures should be a priority. As we approach late afternoon, the index begins to drop, settling at 6 by 5:00 PM and tapering off to 2 by 7:00 PM. Remember to stay sun-safe during those 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 | 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 | 6 | high | 25 min |
18:00 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
19:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
Throughout the year, the UV Index shows significant variation, indicating changes in UV radiation levels and associated burn times. The high-risk months typically stretch from April to August, peaking with an extreme UV Index of 11 during June and July, where the recommended maximum exposure time is just 10 minutes. In contrast, the UV Index remains lower from November to March, with January and December experiencing the least risk. Residents and visitors are advised to take precautions during high UV periods by applying broad-spectrum sunscreen, wearing protective clothing, and seeking shade, especially during midday hours. Awareness of these seasonal changes is crucial for skin health and safety.
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 |
Vielha | 3 | 5 | 6 | 8 | 10 | 11 | 11 | 10 | 8 | 6 | 4 | 2 |
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 |