Last updated: July 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors in Ricote, Spain, where sun exposure can vary significantly throughout the day. The UV Index provides vital information about the strength of ultraviolet radiation, enabling individuals to take necessary precautions against sunburn and skin damage. With Ricote's BSk climate characterized by hot summers and mild winters, the risks of high UV levels are particularly pronounced during midday hours, peaking at 11 around 14:00. By staying informed about UV levels, you can protect your skin health and enjoy the beautiful sunshine responsibly.
As the day unfolds, the UV Index rises dramatically, starting at a modest 1 by 07:00 and steadily climbing to a peak of 11 between 14:00 and 15:00. This surge highlights the importance of staying protected under the sun, especially from 12:00 to 15:00, when the index exceeds 8—a strong indicator of harmful UV exposure. After this midday peak, the index gradually declines, settling back to 4 by 18:00 and dipping to 2 by 19:00. Those planning outdoor activities should take precautions during the most intense hours when the sun's rays are the strongest, ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience in the sun.
| 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 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
| 13:00 | 10 | very high | 15 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 |
Throughout the year, UV exposure significantly fluctuates, with the highest risk months occurring from April to August, where the UV Index reaches levels classified as very high to extreme. Notably, June is the peak month with an extreme UV Index of 12, resulting in a burn time of just 10 minutes. As spring turns to summer, individuals should take extra precautions; wearing sunscreen, protective clothing, and seeking shade during peak hours is highly advisable. Conversely, during the winter months of January and December, the UV Index drops to 3, categorized as moderate, allowing for longer exposure times of 30 minutes without significant risk. Residents and visitors should remain vigilant in high-index months, especially from March to September, to protect their skin 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 |
| 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 |
| Ricote | 3 | 5 | 7 | 9 | 10 | 12 | 11 | 10 | 9 | 7 | 4 | 3 |