Last updated: May 3, 2025
In Riotorto, Spain, awareness of the UV Index is crucial for maintaining skin health and preventing painful sunburns. With UV levels peaking during the midday hours, understanding this index can help residents and visitors alike make informed choices about sun protection. Riotorto’s moderate climate, typical of the Csb zone, presents unique challenges when it comes to UV exposure, especially during the summer months when the risk is notably higher. Embrace the sun responsibly by staying informed about the UV levels and protecting your skin from harmful rays!
From 7:00 AM to 10:00 AM, the UV Index gradually climbs, peaking at a moderate level of 3 by 10:00 AM. As the sun rises higher, the intensity increases sharply, with the index soaring to 7 by noon. The peak of the day comes at 1:00 PM and 2:00 PM, hitting a striking 9—a reminder to take precautions against harmful UV rays. Fortunately, the index begins to wane in the late afternoon, dropping to 6 by 5:00 PM and continuing its descent to 4 by 6:00 PM. As evening approaches, the UV Index falls further, reaching a more manageable 2 at 7:00 PM. It's crucial to stay protected from the midday sun, especially between 11:00 AM and 3:00 PM when UV exposure is at its highest.
| Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07:00 | 1 | 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 | 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 |
The UV Index varies significantly throughout the year, with high-risk months identified from March to October where exposure categories reach high to extreme levels. The most intense UV radiation occurs in June with an index of 11, classified as extreme, resulting in a burn time of just 10 minutes. April, May, July, and August also present very high levels, so residents and visitors should take precautions during these months. It is advised to seek shade, wear protective clothing, and use sunscreen to mitigate risks, particularly during peak sun hours. As the year progresses, UV levels decline, with January and December showing low levels, making these months safer for outdoor activities. However, moderation and protection are key year-round.
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 |
| Riotorto | 2 | 4 | 6 | 8 | 9 | 11 | 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 |