Last updated: August 1, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors in Ax-les-Thermes, France, a beautiful location characterized by its Cfb climate. As a popular destination for outdoor activities, awareness of UV levels can significantly contribute to sunburn prevention and overall skin health. In this picturesque valley, the UV exposure peaks around midday, with indices rising to an intense 11—indicating a high risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure. By staying informed about the UV Index, you can enjoy the stunning surroundings while taking essential steps to protect your skin!
As the sun rises, the UV Index starts off gently at a maximum of 1 from 7:00 AM to 9:00 AM, perfect for an early morning stroll. A noticeable shift occurs by 10:00 AM, when the index climbs to 4—the signal to apply some sunscreen. The peak intensity arrives around 1:00 PM with a scorching 11, making it crucial to seek shade or wear protective clothing. Fortunately, the UV intensity begins to taper off after 2:00 PM, dropping to 10, then 8 at 4:00 PM, before easing to 4 by 6:00 PM. As the day winds down, enjoy the mild evening at 7:00 PM when the UV index falls back to a much more manageable 2. Stay safe and enjoy your day under the sun!
| 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 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
| 13:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 14:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 15:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 16:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 17:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 18:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 19:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
Throughout the year, UV Index levels exhibit significant variability, with high-risk months typically occurring from April to August. During this period, the UV Index reaches its peak at 11 in June and July, indicating an extreme risk for UV exposure where the recommended burn time drops to just 10 minutes. To ensure safety, it is crucial for visitors and residents to take precautions such as using broad-spectrum sunscreen, wearing protective clothing, and seeking shade during the peak hours of sunlight, especially in these high-risk months. March and October mark transitional months with high levels of UV exposure as well, while winter months like January and December see much lower UV levels, allowing for longer safe exposure times of up to 45 minutes. Overall, awareness of these seasonal changes is essential for effective sun protection.
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 |
| Toulouse UVI | 2 | 4 | 6 | 7 | 9 | 10 | 10 | 9 | 7 | 5 | 3 | 2 |
| Ax-les-Thermes | 3 | 5 | 6 | 8 | 9 | 11 | 11 | 10 | 8 | 6 | 4 | 2 |