Last updated: May 3, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents of Madrid, United States, as this simple yet essential tool helps individuals gauge the sun's intensity and take proactive measures to protect their skin. With the potential for sunburn and long-term skin health issues on the rise, being aware of UV levels can make a significant difference in your outdoor activities. Madrid’s Dfa climate presents unique challenges, with summer days often leading to elevated UV exposure. From a peak index of 9 during midday hours to lower readings in the morning and evening, knowing when to seek shade or don protective clothing can ensure you enjoy the sun safely.
The UV Index for the day showcases a notable rise in intensity as the sun climbs higher in the sky. Starting at a low of 1 at 7:00 AM, the index gradually increases to a moderate level of 3 by 9:00 AM. However, from 10:00 AM onward, things heat up significantly, peaking at a scorching 9 from noon to 2:00 PM. As the afternoon progresses, the UV Index gradually dips back to a friendly 3 by 5:00 PM, then descends further to 1 by the time evening sets in. This pattern underscores the importance of sun protection during peak hours, especially between 11:00 AM and 2:00 PM, when UV levels are at their highest.
| Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 08:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 09:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 10:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 11:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 12:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 13:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 14:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 15:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 16:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 17:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 18:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 19:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
Throughout the year, UV Index levels fluctuate significantly, impacting sun exposure and potential skin damage. The high-risk months, identified by an increased UV Index, are April through August, where levels reach a concerning 8 to 11, categorized as either very high to extreme. Notably, June exhibits the peak UV Index of 11, necessitating vigilant sun protection. Residents and visitors are advised to minimize sun exposure during these months, seeking shade and applying broad-spectrum sunscreen regularly, especially during peak hours. In contrast, winter months like January, November, and December present a moderate risk with an UV Index of 3 to 4, allowing for more lenient outdoor activities while still practicing sun safety.
UV Risk Categories
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Chicago UVI | 3 | 4 | 6 | 8 | 9 | 10 | 10 | 9 | 8 | 6 | 4 | 2 |
| Brooklyn UVI | 3 | 5 | 6 | 8 | 10 | 10 | 9 | 9 | 8 | 6 | 4 | 2 |
| New York City UVI | 3 | 5 | 6 | 8 | 10 | 10 | 9 | 9 | 8 | 6 | 4 | 2 |
| Madrid | 3 | 5 | 6 | 8 | 9 | 11 | 10 | 9 | 8 | 6 | 4 | 3 |
| Los Angeles UVI | 4 | 6 | 8 | 9 | 10 | 11 | 11 | 10 | 10 | 7 | 5 | 4 |
| Houston UVI | 5 | 8 | 9 | 11 | 11 | 12 | 12 | 11 | 10 | 9 | 7 | 5 |