Last updated: June 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors in Betanzos, Spain, where the climate can lead to varying levels of sun exposure throughout the day. As the UV levels rise, typically peaking around noon, being aware of these fluctuations can help in preventing sunburn and protecting your skin health. With Betanzos' mild climate in the Csb zone, it’s important to recognize that even on seemingly overcast days, harmful UV rays can be present. Stay informed and take the necessary precautions to enjoy the beautiful outdoors safely!
As the sun rises, the UV Index begins to creep up, starting at a modest 1 at 7:00 AM and 8:00 AM. By 9:00 AM, it reaches 2, and soon after, it climbs to 3 at 10:00 AM. The real intensity hits at 11:00 AM, with the index jumping to 5. Noon marks the peak, soaring to 7, and it only intensifies from there. At 1:00 PM, the UV Index spikes to 9, and by 2:00 PM, it reaches a maximum of 10—a critical level warranting sun safety precautions. This intensity holds steady until 3:00 PM, after which the UV Index starts to decline, dropping gradually to 9 by 4:00 PM, then 7 at 5:00 PM. As the day winds down, the UV levels retreat further, settling at 5 by 6:00 PM, and ending the day with a gentle 3 at 7:00 PM. Remember, the midday sun is the strongest—stay protected!
| 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 | 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 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 17:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 18:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 19:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
The UV Index experiences significant seasonal fluctuations, with the highest levels typically occurring from April to August. During this peak period, the UV Index reaches very high levels, particularly in June with a maximum of 10, indicating a burn time of only 15 minutes. March marks the transition to higher risk, classified as high, with a UV Index of 6 and a burn time of 25 minutes. Conversely, the winter months of January and December show a low UV Index of 2, allowing for extended exposure of up to 45 minutes without risk of burns. Given this data, it is crucial for visitors and residents to take extra precautions during April to August by wearing sunscreen, protective clothing, and limiting sun exposure during peak hours to minimize the risk of skin damage.
UV Risk Categories
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Betanzos | 2 | 4 | 6 | 8 | 9 | 10 | 9 | 9 | 7 | 6 | 3 | 2 |
| 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 |
| Sevilla UVI | 3 | 5 | 7 | 9 | 10 | 11 | 10 | 10 | 9 | 7 | 4 | 3 |