Last updated: July 2, 2025
In Guethary, France, understanding the UV Index is crucial for maintaining skin health and preventing sunburn, especially as summer days bring heightened sun exposure. The UV Index measures the strength of ultraviolet radiation, warning residents and visitors alike about peak hours when protection is essential. With the town's Cfb climate, characterized by mild temperate weather, UV levels can climb swiftly throughout the day, peaking at a significant 10 between 2 PM and 3 PM. By being aware of these levels, you can enjoy the beautiful coastal scenery while safeguarding your skin.
The UV Index for the day starts off mild, with values of 1 at both 7:00 and 8:00 AM, indicating that sun protection is not yet a priority. As the morning progresses, the index gradually rises, reaching 2 by 9:00 AM and 3 by 10:00 AM. The real intensity kicks in around 11:00 AM, where the UV Index escalates to 5, marking the beginning of elevated sun exposure. By noon, the index spikes to 7, and peaks at 10 by 2:00 PM, signaling a period of high risk for harm from unprotected sun exposure. As the afternoon shifts, values begin to taper off, dropping to 6 by 5:00 PM, then easing to 4 by 6:00 PM, and finally closing the day at 2 by 7:00 PM. It's a clear reminder to stay protected during 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 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 14:00 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
| 15:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 16:00 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
| 17:00 | 6 | high | 25 min |
| 18:00 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
| 19:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
Seasonal changes in UV exposure highlight significant variations throughout the year, with high-risk months identified primarily from April to August, where the UV Index peaks at 10 during June and July, indicating a very high exposure category and a rapid burn time of just 15 minutes. As spring transitions into summer, visitors and residents are urged to employ protective measures such as applying sunscreen, wearing protective clothing, and seeking shade during peak hours. Conversely, fall and winter months like January and December present lower UV indices, categorized as low, allowing for extended outdoor activity with a burn time of up to 45 minutes. Staying informed about UV levels can help ensure safe outdoor enjoyment year-round.
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 |
| 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 |
| Guethary | 2 | 4 | 5 | 7 | 9 | 10 | 10 | 9 | 7 | 5 | 3 | 2 |
| Toulouse UVI | 2 | 4 | 6 | 7 | 9 | 10 | 10 | 9 | 7 | 5 | 3 | 2 |