Last updated: July 2, 2025
Staying informed about the UV Index in Saint-Etienne, France is essential for safeguarding your skin health and preventing sunburn. With UV levels peaking in the afternoon, understanding these readings helps residents and visitors alike make informed decisions about outdoor activities. In the temperate climate of Saint-Etienne, where sunshine can be deceptively strong, knowing when to seek shade or apply sunscreen is crucial. Keep an eye on the UV Index to protect yourself from potential harm while enjoying the beautiful surroundings this vibrant city has to offer.
The UV Index data for the day reveals a dynamic and intense sun exposure. Starting off with a maximum of 1 at 7:00 AM and 8:00 AM, it quickly rises to 2 by 9:00 AM. The sun reaches its peak intensity from 12:00 PM to 3:00 PM, hitting a scorching 9 during the hottest hours. As the afternoon wanes, the UV index gradually declines to 7 by 4:00 PM, then further to 5 at 5:00 PM, and eventually settling at a more manageable 2 by 7:00 PM. To stay safe and protect your skin, it's crucial to seek shade and apply sunscreen, especially during those midday hours when the UV Index is at its highest!
| 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 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 14:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 15:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 16:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 17:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 18:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 19:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
Throughout the year, UV exposure varies significantly, with the highest levels occurring from May to August. During these months, the UV Index reaches 8 to 10, categorized as very high, with a burn time as quick as 15 minutes. The high-risk months include March through September, particularly May, June, and July, which require vigilant sun protection measures. In contrast, the UV Index is lower in the winter months, particularly in January and December where it drops to 2, indicating a low exposure category with a burn time of 45 minutes. Visitors and residents are advised to take extra precautions during peak UV months—wearing protective clothing, applying broad-spectrum sunscreen frequently, and seeking shade during peak sunlight hours to reduce the risk of skin damage.
UV Risk Categories
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Paris UVI | 2 | 3 | 5 | 6 | 8 | 9 | 8 | 8 | 6 | 4 | 2 | 1 |
| Lyon UVI | 2 | 3 | 5 | 6 | 8 | 10 | 9 | 8 | 6 | 5 | 3 | 2 |
| Saint-Etienne | 2 | 3 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 10 | 9 | 9 | 7 | 5 | 3 | 2 |
| Nice UVI | 2 | 4 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 10 | 9 | 8 | 7 | 5 | 3 | 2 |
| Marseille UVI | 2 | 4 | 5 | 7 | 9 | 10 | 9 | 8 | 7 | 5 | 3 | 2 |
| Toulouse UVI | 2 | 4 | 6 | 7 | 9 | 10 | 10 | 9 | 7 | 5 | 3 | 2 |