Last updated: May 3, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors of Santa Coloma, Spain, where the Mediterranean climate can lead to significant sun exposure throughout the year. Being aware of UV levels is essential for preventing sunburn and protecting your skin health, particularly during the peak hours when values reach as high as 10—indicative of very high risk. Santa Coloma enjoys a mild, temperate climate, but the intensity of sunlight during summer months can pose serious risks if precautions aren’t taken. Whether you're lounging at the beach or enjoying outdoor activities, knowing the UV Index helps you stay safe under the sun.
The UV Index paints a vivid picture of sun exposure throughout the day. Early morning sees a gentle start, with levels peaking at 1 between 07:00 and 08:00. Things begin to ramp up by 09:00 reaching 2, and the intensity escalates rapidly, surging to 5 by 11:00. The zenith of UV radiation occurs at 14:00, with a striking 10, highlighting the importance of protection during peak hours. As the afternoon transitions to evening, the index gradually declines, dipping to 5 by 17:00 and settling at 2 by 19:00. This hourly data reminds us to be sun-smart: apply sunscreen, wear protective clothing, and seek shade during those intense hours!
| 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 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
| 13:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 14:00 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
| 15:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 16:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 17:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 18:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 19:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
The UV Index exhibits significant seasonal variation, peaking during the summer months. January to February shows a moderate risk with an index of 3 to 4, allowing for approximately 30 minutes of safe exposure. As spring arrives, March increases to a high index of 6, reducing safe exposure time to 25 minutes. The risk escalates rapidly in April and May, reaching very high levels of 8 and 10 respectively, necessitating protective measures after 15 minutes in the sun. June presents the most extreme UV conditions with an index of 11—with a mere 10 minutes of safe exposure—making this the highest risk month. July and August remain critical with 10 and 9, while September sees a slight decline to 8. As autumn descends, October returns to a high index of 6, then drops to moderate in November and low by December. Visitors and residents are advised to take precautions during April through September, including using sunscreen, wearing protective clothing, and seeking shade during peak sun hours.
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 |
| Santa Coloma | 3 | 4 | 6 | 8 | 10 | 11 | 10 | 9 | 8 | 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 |