Last updated: July 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors of El Grao, Spain, where basking in the Mediterranean sun can feel delightful but brings hidden risks. With an average UV exposure that peaks at 10 during midday, knowing the levels helps you prevent sunburn and protect your skin health. This region, characterized by a semi-arid climate (BSk), sees intense sunlight that can lead to increased skin damage if precautions aren't taken. Stay informed and sun-savvy to enjoy the beautiful beaches and sunny days of El Grao while safeguarding your skin!
As the sun climbs higher in the sky, the UV Index begins its ascent, starting from a mild level of 1 at 07:00 and gradually building momentum. By 10:00, it reaches a moderate 4, signaling a need for caution. The intensity peaks at 12:00 and 13:00, where it hits a striking 8 and a scorching 10, indicating a heightened risk for sunburn. As the afternoon progresses, the index begins to taper off, dipping to 9 at 15:00, then gradually declining to 3 by 18:00. This hourly UV data serves as a reminder to stay protected during those critical midday hours when the sun’s rays are most potent.
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 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
15:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
16:00 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
17:00 | 6 | high | 25 min |
18:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
19:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
Throughout the year, seasonal changes in UV Index reveal significant fluctuations in sun exposure and risk levels. The months of March through September present the highest UV levels, with April through June reaching the peak UV Index of 11 in June, categorized as extreme, while May and July also remain dangerously high. High-risk months for sunburn are clearly identified as April to September, where the burn time decreases sharply to as little as 10 minutes in June. As such, it is crucial for both visitors and residents to take precautionary measures during these months. This includes wearing sunscreen, donning protective clothing, and seeking shade during peak hours, particularly from late morning to mid-afternoon, to mitigate skin damage and health risks associated with UV exposure.
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 |
El Grao | 3 | 4 | 6 | 8 | 9 | 11 | 10 | 9 | 8 | 6 | 4 | 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 |