Last updated: May 3, 2025
In Merida, Spain, staying informed about the UV Index is crucial for protecting your skin and overall health. With the sun’s intensity soaring, especially during the peak hours, understanding UV levels can help you prevent painful sunburns and long-term skin damage. Merida’s Mediterranean climate means plenty of sunshine, but it also brings high UV exposure risks—particularly from 12 PM to 3 PM, when UV indices reach their peak at 10. By being aware of these levels, you can enjoy the beautiful weather while keeping your skin safe and healthy.
As the day unfolds, the UV Index reveals a striking pattern of increasing intensity. The morning starts off gently, with values of 0 at 07:00, gradually rising to a mild 1 by 08:00 and 09:00. However, the sun's rays intensify sharply, peaking at 10 between 14:00 and 15:00, making it crucial to protect your skin during these hours. As the afternoon wanes, the UV Index begins to taper off, dropping to 8 by 16:00, and settling to 4 by 18:00. The evening sees another decline, with a final count of 2 at 19:00. Remember, being aware of the UV Index is key to enjoying a safe and sun-smart day!
| Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07:00 | 0 | low | 45 min |
| 08:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 09:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 10:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 11:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 12:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 13:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 14:00 | 10 | very high | 15 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 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 |
| Merida | 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 |