Last updated: May 3, 2025
Understanding the UV Index in Lorca, Spain, is essential for protecting your skin and overall health under the Mediterranean sun. With its semi-arid climate, Lorca experiences significant UV exposure, particularly during peak hours when the index can soar to a staggering 10. By staying informed about daily UV levels, residents and visitors can take proactive steps to prevent sunburn and reduce the risk of long-term skin damage. This awareness is crucial, especially in a region known for its sunny disposition and warm temperatures, where outdoor activities abound. Embrace the sunshine wisely—check the UV Index regularly and enjoy all that Lorca has to offer safely!
The UV Index (UVI) throughout the day presents a clear picture of increasing sun intensity. Starting at a mild 1 during the early morning hours, the index gradually climbs as the sun rises. By 10:00 AM, it hits 3, and the real heat kicks in around 12:00 PM, with a peak UVI of 10 at 1:00 PM and 2:00 PM. As the afternoon progresses, the intensity begins to wane, decreasing to 5 by 5:00 PM and continuing to drop towards the evening, finally settling at a more manageable 2 by 7:00 PM. Those planning outdoor activities should take note: the midday sun is the strongest, making protective measures essential during 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 | 6 | high | 25 min |
| 12:00 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
| 13:00 | 10 | 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 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 18:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 19:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
Throughout the year, UV exposure levels fluctuate significantly, with high-risk months typically occurring from April to August. In April and May, the UV Index peaks at levels of 9 and 10 (very high), leading to a burn time of just 15 minutes. The intensity reaches its zenith in June and July, where the UV Index hits 11 (extreme), necessitating extra precautions since an unprotected individual can burn in as little as 10 minutes. As summer wanes, September retains a very high UV Index of 9, but by October, it decreases to 7 (high), allowing for slightly longer exposure times of 25 minutes. For January, February, November, and December, the UV Index remains moderate, with burn times of 30 minutes. Visitors and residents should be especially vigilant during the summer months by seeking shade, applying sunscreen, and wearing protective clothing to minimize skin damage.
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 |
| Lorca | 3 | 5 | 6 | 9 | 10 | 11 | 11 | 10 | 9 | 7 | 4 | 3 |