Last updated: May 3, 2025
In Saint-Médard-en-Forez, understanding the UV Index is crucial for protecting your skin and overall health. With its Cfb climate, the region experiences varying levels of UV exposure throughout the day, peaking between 11:00 AM and 3:00 PM when UV Index readings can soar to as high as 8. This means that even brief sun exposure during these hours can lead to sunburn and long-term skin damage if precautions are not taken. By staying informed about UV levels, residents can enjoy the sun safely while minimizing risks to their skin health.
The UV Index throughout the day reveals a dynamic pattern of sun intensity. Starting the day gently at 1 during the early hours, the sun escalates its radiance by 09:00, reaching 2. As the morning blossoms into midday, we see a noticeable rise, peaking at 8 between 13:00 and 14:00—perfect for those seeking the sun's warmth. However, as the afternoon wanes, the intensity begins to retreat, dropping back to 4 by 17:00, and finally mellowing out to 1 by 19:00. It's a reminder to embrace sun safety during the peak hours of 11:00 to 14:00, where protection is vital! ☀️
| 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 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 13:00 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
| 14:00 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
| 15:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 16:00 | 6 | high | 25 min |
| 17:00 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
| 18:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 19:00 | 1 | 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-Medard-en-Forez | 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 |