Last updated: June 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors in Vieux-Boucau-les-Bains, France, especially as the sun's rays can pose significant risks to skin health. High UV levels, particularly during midday hours, can lead to sunburn and long-term skin damage if precautions aren't taken. With a Cfb climate, this picturesque seaside town experiences varied UV exposure throughout the day, peaking at 10 between 1 PM and 2 PM. Being informed about these levels empowers you to enjoy the sun safely while protecting your skin. So, let’s dive into understanding the UV Index and how it affects your time in this beautiful coastal paradise!
As the sun rises, the UV Index begins at a mild 1 at 7:00 AM, providing a gentle start to the day. By 9:00 AM, it increases to a moderate 2, signaling a gradual build-up of UV radiation. The intensity peaks dramatically at 12:00 PM with an 8, and continues to soar, hitting a maximum of 10 at 1:00 PM and 2:00 PM. As the afternoon progresses, the UV Index starts to decline, dropping to 9 by 3:00 PM and tapering off to 6 at 5:00 PM. Finally, as the sun sets, the UV Index decreases to a benign 2 by 7:00 PM, illustrating the day’s dynamic UV exposure. Remember to protect your skin 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 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
| 11:00 | 6 | high | 25 min |
| 12:00 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
| 13:00 | 10 | 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 |
| Vieux-Boucau-les-Bains | 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 |