UV Index in Pamplona, Spain

Last updated: June 2, 2025

In Pamplona, Spain, being aware of the UV Index is crucial for protecting your skin from harmful ultraviolet rays. Understanding UV levels helps you take steps to prevent sunburn and maintain long-term skin health. With its Cfb climate, Pamplona experiences moderate rainfall and mild summers, but when the sun shines, UV exposure can escalate quickly—reaching a peak of 11 between 13:00 and 14:00. Equip yourself with knowledge about the UV Index to enjoy the outdoors safely while minimizing your risk of skin damage.

Hourly UV Index in Pamplona

As the sun rises, the UV Index starts off mild, peaking at a gentle 1 by 8:00 AM. However, as the hours progress, the intensity ramps up significantly. By 10:00 AM, the index hits a moderate 4, escalating to a 6 by 11:00 AM. The sun reaches its zenith at 1:00 PM, where the UV Index soars to an intense 10, and even peaks at a blistering 11 by 2:00 PM. After this peak, the levels gradually decline, with 8 by 4:00 PM and slipping down to 2 as the sun sets at 7:00 PM. This hourly shift serves as a reminder to stay protected during the highest UV exposure times, especially between noon and early afternoon.

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	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	8	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 Pamplona

Throughout the year, UV radiation levels exhibit significant seasonal variations, peaking in the summer months. March marks the beginning of high-risk UV exposure with an index of 6, escalating to an extreme level of 11 in June. The highest risk months are April to August, with values consistently at 8 or above, suggesting severe caution for sun exposure. Visitors and residents are advised to limit outdoor activities during peak hours (10 AM - 4 PM) and to wear protective clothing, apply broad-spectrum sunscreen, and seek shade whenever possible, particularly in the very high and extreme categories. As UV levels drop in the fall and winter, January and February present moderate risks with longer burn times of 30 minutes, allowing for more leisurely sun exposure, but caution should still be exercised.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Pamplona, Spain

The monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) represents the highest UV radiation level recorded each month in Pamplona. 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 Pamplona, 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 Pamplona UV Index with Other Spain Cities

The table above highlights how UV exposure in Pamplona 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.

Pamplona'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
Pamplona	3	4	6	8	9	11	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