Last updated: May 3, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors of Melilla, Spain, where the sun shines brightly and frequently. With average UV levels soaring to 10 during midday hours, it’s essential to grasp the impact of these rays on your skin health and sunburn prevention. Melilla's Mediterranean climate brings warm summers and high UV risks, emphasizing the need for informed sun safety practices. By staying aware of the UV Index, you can enjoy the sun responsibly while protecting your skin from harmful effects.
The UV Index peaks dramatically as the day unfolds. Starting at a gentle 1 at 07:00, it climbs steadily, reaching 3 by 08:00. By 09:00, it surges to 5, but the real intensity kicks in between 10:00 and 14:00, where it hits a maximum of 10. This period demands extra caution, as the sun's rays are at their most potent. As the afternoon wanes, the index begins to taper off, dropping to 8 at 15:00 and gradually declining to 6 by 16:00. The evening brings a reprieve, with levels descending to 3 by 17:00, then 2 at 18:00, and finally back to 1 by 19:00—a gentle reminder of the day's sun-drenched journey. Remember to protect your skin as the sun’s intensity can change rapidly!
| Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 08:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 09:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 10:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 11:00 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
| 12:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 13:00 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
| 14:00 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
| 15:00 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
| 16:00 | 6 | high | 25 min |
| 17:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 18:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 19:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
Throughout the year, UV index levels fluctuate significantly, affecting sun exposure risks for residents and visitors. From January to February, the UV Index remains moderate (3-5) with a safe burn time of 30 minutes. However, as spring approaches, March sees a rise to a high index of 7, with a reduced burn time of 25 minutes. The summer months are marked by extreme UV exposure: June and July register the highest at 11, indicating a mere 10 minutes before skin damage can occur. Notably, April and May also feature very high levels, necessitating protective measures. The fall months show a gradual decrease in UV intensity, with September at 8 and October at 7, allowing for 15 to 25 minutes of burn time. Visitors and residents should take precautions during high-risk months from March to September, particularly in June and July, by wearing protective clothing, applying sunscreen, and limiting sun exposure during peak 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 |
| 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 |
| Melilla | 3 | 5 | 7 | 9 | 10 | 11 | 11 | 10 | 8 | 7 | 5 | 3 |