Last updated: May 3, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors in Leganes, Spain, where the Mediterranean climate brings ample sunshine year-round. With UV levels peaking at a significant 10 during the midday hours, being aware of these measurements is essential for preventing sunburn and protecting skin health. High UV exposure can lead to serious long-term effects, making it vital to check daily levels. In Leganes, knowing when to seek shade or apply sunscreen can make all the difference in enjoying its beautiful, sun-drenched days while staying safe.
As the day unfolds, the UV Index rises dramatically, showcasing the sun’s power. Starting off at a gentle 1 by 07:00, it gradually climbs to 5 by 11:00. The real intensity kicks in around noon with a peak of 10 at 14:00—a strong reminder to protect your skin! The index begins to wane as the afternoon wears on, dropping to 6 by 17:00 and continuing to fall to 2 by 19:00. It’s a vivid illustration of how the sun's potency evolves throughout the day, urging us to stay sun-smart during those peak 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 | 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, the UV Index demonstrates notable seasonal changes, indicating varying levels of sun exposure risk. The high-risk months are primarily from March to September, with the peak UV Index reaching 11 in June and July, signifying an extreme exposure category where burn time is reduced to just 10 minutes. In contrast, the winter months (January, February, November, and December) exhibit a moderate exposure category, with a UV Index of 3 to 4 and a burn time of up to 30 minutes. As such, it is crucial for visitors and residents to be vigilant during the high-risk months by wearing sunscreen, protective clothing, and seeking shade to minimize the risk of skin damage. Emphasizing protection, especially in the intense summer, will help safeguard health while enjoying outdoor activities.
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 |
| Leganes | 3 | 4 | 6 | 8 | 10 | 11 | 11 | 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 |