Last updated: June 2, 2025
In Olocau del Rey, Spain, staying aware of the UV Index is vital for safeguarding your skin against harmful ultraviolet rays. Understanding UV levels is essential not just for preventing sunburns but also for maintaining long-term skin health. Given the town's temperate climate (Cfb), residents and visitors alike should be conscious of the UV exposure risks, especially during peak hours when the index can reach as high as 11. By keeping track of the UV Index, you can enjoy the beautiful Spanish sun while minimizing the risk of skin damage.
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 fluctuate significantly, with the most intense exposure occurring from March to August. During these months, particularly in June and July, the UV Index reaches its peak at 11, categorized as extreme, with a critical burn time of just 10 minutes. These months represent high-risk periods for skin damage, necessitating vigilant sun protection. Conversely, January and February experience a moderate UV Index of 3 and 4, allowing for safer outdoor activities, though caution is still warranted. As a general guideline, residents and visitors should stay informed about the UV Index, especially during the high-risk months, and prioritize sun safety by using sunscreen, wearing protective clothing, and seeking shade during peak hours. In contrast, late fall and winter months show a gradual decline in UV levels, culminating in December's low UV Index of 2, allowing for longer exposure without significant risk of sunburn.
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 |
| Olocau del Rey | 3 | 4 | 6 | 8 | 10 | 11 | 11 | 9 | 8 | 6 | 4 | 2 |
| Sevilla UVI | 3 | 5 | 7 | 9 | 10 | 11 | 10 | 10 | 9 | 7 | 4 | 3 |