Last updated: May 3, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is essential for residents and visitors in Bordeaux, France, where sun exposure can become a concern, especially during the warmer months. Awareness of UV levels is crucial for preventing sunburn and protecting skin health, as even moderate levels can pose risks. With Bordeaux's Cfb climate, characterized by mild summers and significant sunshine, individuals should be particularly mindful of UV exposure. During peak hours, especially between 12 PM and 3 PM, when the UV Index can reach 8, taking protective measures becomes imperative to enjoy the sun safely.
The UV Index for today showcases a fascinating journey through the hours, starting from a gentle maximum of 1 at 7:00 AM and 8:00 AM, making it an ideal time for early risers to enjoy the outdoors with minimal sun exposure. As the sun climbs higher, the index surges to 3 by 10:00 AM, signaling the onset of mid-morning sunlight. A significant peak arrives at 12:00 PM, with a UV Index reaching 7, and then it hits its zenith at 1:00 PM with a strong 8—a crucial reminder to slip on that sunscreen! The afternoon maintains this intensity until 3:00 PM, where it stabilizes at 8, before gradually tapering off to 6 at 4:00 PM and declining to 2 by 7:00 PM. Stay smart and shielded during those peak 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 | 6 | 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 |
| Bordeaux | 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 |