Last updated: July 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors in Morteau, France, to protect themselves against harmful ultraviolet radiation. As sun exposure can lead to serious skin issues like sunburn and long-term health concerns, being aware of daily UV levels is essential for maintaining skin health. Morteau's Cfb climate brings milder conditions, yet during the peak sunny hours from late morning to early afternoon, UV levels can soar, reaching a maximum of 9. This highlights the importance of knowing when to seek shade and apply sunscreen to mitigate risks associated with high UV exposure.
The UV index starts slowly, peaking at 1 during the early morning hours of 07:00 and 08:00. As the sun ascends, it climbs steadily, reaching a moderate 3 by 09:00. The intensity escalates sharply to 4 at 10:00, and by 11:00, it soars to 6, signaling a high level of solar radiation. The sun is at its zenith by 12:00, with a UV index of 8, and the risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure is significant. The index peaks at an impressive 9 between 13:00 and 14:00, necessitating precaution for outdoor activities. Gradually, the UV levels begin to taper off, dropping to 8 at 15:00, then 6 at 16:00. As the day winds down, the index falls to 5 at 17:00, then back to 3 by 18:00, and finally settles at a low 1 by 19:00. This pattern emphasizes the importance of sun safety during midday hours while enjoying the great outdoors.
| Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 08:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 09:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 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 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
| 16:00 | 6 | high | 25 min |
| 17:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 18:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 19:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
Throughout the year, the UV Index demonstrates notable seasonal variations that affect exposure risk. January and February have relatively low to moderate UV levels (Index 2-3), with safe burn times of 45 and 30 minutes respectively. As spring approaches, March sees a rise to an index of 5, and by April, it reaches 6, marking the beginning of high-risk months. The most critical period arrives in May and June, where the UV Index peaks at 8-9, indicating very high exposure risk and a reduced burn time of just 15 minutes. July and August maintain this peak, before tapering off in September with a return to a high risk (UV Index 6). October brings a moderate reduction (Index 4), while winter months November and December drop back to low levels. Visitors and residents should be particularly vigilant during May through September, using sunscreen and protective clothing to minimize harmful effects during these high-risk months.
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 |
| Morteau | 2 | 3 | 5 | 6 | 8 | 9 | 9 | 8 | 6 | 4 | 2 | 1 |
| Lyon UVI | 2 | 3 | 5 | 6 | 8 | 10 | 9 | 8 | 6 | 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 |