Last updated: June 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index in La Roca de la Sierra, Spain is essential for protecting your skin and maintaining overall health. With the region's Mediterranean climate, residents and visitors alike face varying levels of UV exposure throughout the day, particularly during peak hours when the UV Index can soar to a severe level of 11. By being aware of these UV levels, you can take proactive steps to prevent sunburn and long-term skin damage. So, whether you're enjoying the sunny outdoors or planning your activities, staying informed about the UV Index is crucial for your safety and well-being.
The UV Index throughout the day reveals a striking pattern of intensity and peak exposure. Starting off gently, the morning hours from 7:00 to 9:00 maintain a low level between 1 and 2. As the sun climbs, the index escalates dramatically, hitting 3 at 10:00 and spiking to a robust 8 by noon. The afternoon sees its zenith at 1:00 PM with a scorching 10, reaching a peak of 11 from 2:00 to 3:00 PM—ideal conditions for sun enthusiasts. However, this high concentration begins a gradual decline, tapering off to 7 by 5:00 PM and sinking further to 2 after 6:00 PM, signaling safer hours for those looking to enjoy outdoor activities without the risk of overexposure. Remember, sun safety is crucial 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 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 11:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 12:00 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
| 13:00 | 10 | very high | 15 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 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 19:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
Throughout the year, the UV Index experiences significant fluctuations, highlighting the importance of sun safety for both visitors and residents. High-risk months for skin exposure occur from April to September, with May and June reaching the highest levels at a UV Index of 10 and 11, categorized as very high and extreme, respectively, where burn times can be as short as 10 minutes. As the warmer months approach, individuals should take necessary precautions, such as wearing protective clothing, using sunscreen, and seeking shade during peak hours. As winter arrives in December and January, the UV Index decreases to 3 and 4, indicating a moderate risk, but protection remains essential to prevent skin damage. By being mindful of these seasonal UV changes, everyone can enjoy outdoor activities safely throughout the year.
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 |
| La Roca de la Sierra | 3 | 4 | 6 | 9 | 10 | 11 | 10 | 9 | 8 | 6 | 4 | 3 |
| Sevilla UVI | 3 | 5 | 7 | 9 | 10 | 11 | 10 | 10 | 9 | 7 | 4 | 3 |