Last updated: June 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors in Benilloba, Spain, where the Mediterranean climate offers plenty of sunshine but also heightens the risk of sunburn and long-term skin health issues. With UV levels peaking at 11 during the early afternoon, it’s essential to recognize how exposure intensity varies throughout the day. By being informed about UV levels, you can take proactive steps to protect your skin, ensuring your time outdoors is not just enjoyable, but also safe. Whether you're hiking in the beautiful backdrop of the mountains or relaxing in the sun, staying aware of UV risks can help you maintain healthy skin and enjoy all that the vibrant Benilloba climate has to offer.
As the sun rises, the UV Index begins to climb steadily, starting at a mild 1 at 7 AM and 8 AM. By 9 AM, it reaches 2, hinting at the day ahead. The intensity spikes dramatically as we approach midday, peaking at a striking 11 from 1 PM to 3 PM—an indicator of potentially harmful UV exposure. Peak UV intensity occurs at 12 PM, registering 9 and 11 at 1 PM, clearly urging precaution. As the afternoon wanes, the index starts to drop, falling to 6 by 5 PM and tapering off to 2 by 7 PM. This dynamic pattern underscores the importance of sun safety measures, especially during those crucial midday 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 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
| 11:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 12:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 13:00 | 11 | extreme | 10 min |
| 14:00 | 11 | extreme | 10 min |
| 15:00 | 11 | extreme | 10 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 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.
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 |
| Benilloba | 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 |