Last updated: August 1, 2025
Understanding the UV Index in Puerto de Santa Cruz, Spain, is essential for anyone looking to enjoy the sun safely. With a climate classified as Csa, residents and visitors alike experience significant UV exposure, especially during peak hours. As the UV levels can reach as high as 10 between 1 PM and 3 PM, being aware of these readings is crucial for preventing sunburn and protecting your skin health. By knowing when to seek shade or apply sunscreen, you can enjoy the beautiful weather without compromising your well-being. Stay informed and protect yourself under the intense sun of Puerto de Santa Cruz!
The UV Index throughout the day showcases a significant rise in intensity, peaking during the afternoon. Starting from a mild level of 1 at 7:00 AM and 8:00 AM, it steadily climbs and hits 3 by 10:00 AM. The sun's rays become more intense as the day progresses, reaching a noteworthy level of 7 at 12:00 PM. The highest values appear between 1:00 PM and 3:00 PM, where the UV Index reaches a maximum of 10, indicating a very high risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure. As the sun begins to dip, the index gradually declines, falling to 4 by 6:00 PM and resting at 2 by 7:00 PM. It's a vivid reminder to stay protected during those peak hours!
| 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 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 11:00 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
| 12:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 13:00 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
| 14:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 15:00 | 9 | 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, UV index levels fluctuate significantly, highlighting the need for heightened awareness during specific months. From January to February, the UV index remains in the moderate category (3-4), allowing for a burn time of up to 30 minutes. However, as spring approaches, March brings a jump to high (UV index 7), and by April, it reaches a very high level (UV index 9) with a reduced burn time of only 15 minutes. The summer months of June and July experience an extreme (UV index 11) and very high index (UV index 10) respectively, demanding caution as burn time decreases to just 10-15 minutes. August and September maintain a very high level, only slightly easing in October with a high index (UV index 6). The year concludes with lower UV levels in November and December (moderate level again), where burn time extends back to 30 minutes. For visitors and residents, it is crucial to take protective measures during high-risk months, particularly from March through September, to prevent sunburn and long-term skin damage. Always use sunscreen, wear protective clothing, and seek shade whenever possible during peak UV exposure times.
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 |
| Puerto de Santa Cruz | 3 | 4 | 7 | 9 | 10 | 11 | 10 | 9 | 8 | 6 | 4 | 3 |
| Sevilla UVI | 3 | 5 | 7 | 9 | 10 | 11 | 10 | 10 | 9 | 7 | 4 | 3 |