Last updated: July 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is essential for residents and visitors in Santa Pola, Spain, where the Mediterranean climate brings plenty of sunshine and higher UV levels. Awareness of UV radiation is crucial for preventing sunburn and protecting skin health, especially during the peak hours of 11 AM to 3 PM, when UV levels soar to as high as 11. With Santa Pola's BSk climate, which features hot, dry summers, knowing the UV Index can help you plan outdoor activities safely, minimizing the risk of harmful skin effects. Stay informed to enjoy the sun while keeping your skin healthy!
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.
| 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 |
Throughout the year, the UV Index exhibits notable seasonal changes, significantly affecting outdoor activities. The high-risk months for sun exposure are from April to August, where the UV Index peaks, reaching 11 in June and July, categorized as extreme, with a burn time of just 10 minutes. Visitors and residents should take extra precautions during these months, such as wearing protective clothing, using sunscreen with a high SPF, and seeking shade during peak sun hours. As the year transitions into fall and winter, from September to December, UV levels decrease, with burn times increasing again to 30 minutes in November and December. However, even in these months, it's advisable to remain vigilant and protect your skin from UV rays 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 |
| Santa Pola | 3 | 5 | 6 | 8 | 10 | 11 | 11 | 9 | 8 | 6 | 4 | 3 |
| Sevilla UVI | 3 | 5 | 7 | 9 | 10 | 11 | 10 | 10 | 9 | 7 | 4 | 3 |