Last updated: August 1, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors in Santa Cruz de la Sierra, Spain, where the strong sun can lead to significant health risks. With UV levels peaking at an intense 10 from noon to 3 PM, being aware of these fluctuations is essential for effective sunburn prevention and maintaining long-term skin health. The Mediterranean climate here contributes to high UV exposure, especially during the summer months, making it even more important to monitor the UV Index daily. Stay informed and protected as you enjoy the beautiful, sunny days in this vibrant city!
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 |
| Santa Cruz de la Sierra | 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 |