Last updated: July 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is essential for residents and visitors of Houlgate, France, particularly in a region known for its mild oceanic climate. Being aware of UV levels helps you protect your skin from the harmful effects of sun exposure, including sunburn and long-term skin damage. With typical peak UV readings reaching as high as 8 around midday, the risk for harmful exposure increases dramatically during summer months. So, staying informed about the UV Index not only ensures a safer beach experience but also promotes better skin health for all in this picturesque coastal town.
The UV Index rises dramatically as the day unfolds, starting with a mild 1 at 07:00 and escalating to a peak of 8 between 13:00 and 15:00. This midday sun intensity signals a critical time for sun protection, with optimal caution advised given the 7 at 12:00 and the 8 that follows. As the afternoon wanes, the index gradually declines, dropping to 5 by 17:00 and tapering to below 3 by 19:00. It's a day characterized by a significant UV presence, underscoring the importance of vigilance in sun safety during those peak afternoon hours.
| 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 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 11:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 12:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 13:00 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
| 14:00 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
| 15:00 | 8 | 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, the UV Index experiences significant fluctuations, with high-risk months identified primarily from April to August, where the index peaks at an alarming 9 in June. During these months, the exposure category escalates to very high, resulting in a burn time of just 15 minutes for unprotected skin. In contrast, January, November, and December have low UV levels, making sun protection less critical, with burn times extending to 45 minutes. As such, it’s essential for both visitors and residents to stay vigilant during the peak months by applying broad-spectrum sunscreen, wearing protective clothing, and seeking shade, especially between 10 AM and 4 PM, when UV rays are strongest.
UV Risk Categories
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Houlgate | 2 | 3 | 4 | 6 | 8 | 9 | 8 | 8 | 6 | 4 | 2 | 1 |
| 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 |
| 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 |