UV Index in Cartagena, Spain

Last updated: June 2, 2025

Understanding the UV Index in Cartagena, Spain is crucial for safeguarding your skin against harmful ultraviolet rays. As this beautiful coastal destination experiences a BSk climate, the sun can be quite intense, especially during the peak hours from 11 AM to 3 PM, with a maximum UV Index reaching up to 11. By staying informed about UV levels, you can effectively prevent sunburn and protect your long-term skin health. Awareness of these factors not only enhances your outdoor enjoyment but also fosters a proactive approach to sun safety amid Cartagena's inviting sunshine.

Hourly UV Index in Cartagena

As the sun rises, the UV Index begins modestly, peaking at 1 by 08:00. The daylight brings an upward trend, reaching 2 by 09:00, but it’s not until 10:00 that the intensity escalates to 4. The real surge occurs around midday, with the index skyrocketing to a staggering 9 at 12:00 and hitting its zenith at 13:00 and 14:00 with a maximum of 11. As the afternoon progresses, the UV levels gradually decline, dipping to 10 by 15:00, then gently descending to 6 at 17:00, and finally settling back to 2 by 19:00. It's crucial to stay protected during those peak hours—12:00 to 14:00—when the sun is at its most potent!

Average solar exposure data for the current time of the year. Actual values may vary and depend on many factors, such as cloud cover, vegetation cover, surface type, etc.
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	4	moderate	30 min
11:00	6	high	25 min
12:00	9	very high	15 min
13:00	11	extreme	10 min
14:00	11	extreme	10 min
15:00	10	very high	15 min
16:00	9	very high	15 min
17:00	6	high	25 min
18:00	4	moderate	30 min
19:00	2	low	45 min

Monthly UV Index Trends in Cartagena

Throughout the year, UV levels change significantly, influencing sun exposure safety for visitors and residents. High-risk months occur from April to August, with particularly intense UV Index levels peaking at 11 in June and July, categorized as extreme. During these months, the recommended burn time drops to just 10 minutes, underscoring the need for vigilant sun protection. In contrast, the UV Index remains at more moderate levels (3 to 5) during the winter months of January, February, and December, allowing for longer exposure times of up to 30 minutes without burning. To ensure safety, it is advisable for everyone to be mindful of UV levels, especially during high-risk months, by wearing sunblock, protective clothing, and seeking shade whenever possible.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Cartagena, Spain

The monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) represents the highest UV radiation level recorded each month in Cartagena. It measures the strength of ultraviolet radiation from the sun and helps assess the risk of sunburn and UV-related health issues.

Data source: Statistical UV Index data for Cartagena, based on information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

UV Risk Categories

Extreme (11+): Avoid the sun, stay in shade.
Very High (8-10): Limit sun exposure.
High (6-7): Use SPF 30+ and protective clothing.
Moderate (3-5): Midday shade recommended.
Low (0-2): No protection needed.

Compare Cartagena UV Index with Other Spain Cities

The table above highlights how UV exposure in Cartagena compares to other major locations across Spain. This comparison helps travelers and residents better understand regional sun intensity and plan outdoor activities with sun safety in mind.

Cartagena's solar exposure compared to other cities in Spain. Generated using Copernicus Atmosphere Monitoring Service information.
	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
Cartagena	3	5	6	8	10	11	11	9	8	7	4	3
Sevilla UVI	3	5	7	9	10	11	10	10	9	7	4	3