Last updated: August 1, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors of Caunes-Minervois, France, to protect themselves from the sun’s harmful rays. With UV levels peaking at 10 during the height of the day, awareness of these readings can significantly aid in sunburn prevention and promote overall skin health. Caunes-Minervois, nestled in a temperate climate zone, experiences varying UV exposure that can intensify quickly, particularly between 11 AM and 2 PM. By staying informed about the UV Index, you can enjoy the beautiful surroundings while keeping your skin safe and healthy.
The UV Index reveals a dynamic pattern throughout the day, beginning with a minimal UVI of 1 at 07:00, and gradually rising as the sun ascends. By 10:00, it reaches 4, signaling a shift towards higher exposure, and by 12:00, it peaks at an impressive 8. Among the highest readings, 13:00 and 14:00 hit a scorching 10, emphasizing the need for sun protection during these hours. As the afternoon wanes, the index starts to decline, dropping to 7 by 16:00, and further declining to 5 at 17:00. As evening approaches, the UVI diminishes to 3 at 18:00, and concludes with a gentle 2 at 19:00. This pattern underscores the importance of vigilance against UV exposure as midday approaches, encouraging outdoor enthusiasts to take precautions when the sun is at its strongest.
| 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 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 15:00 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
| 16:00 | 6 | high | 25 min |
| 17:00 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
| 18:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 19:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
Throughout the year, seasonal changes in UV exposure highlight significant fluctuations in the UV Index. The months of May through August are particularly high-risk, with UV Index values reaching a peak of 10, indicating very high exposure and a burn time of only 15 minutes. Visitors and residents should remain vigilant during these months, employing protective measures such as sunscreen and clothing, especially between 10 AM and 4 PM when UV exposure is strongest. March and April also show increased risk with UV Index values of 6 and 7 respectively. Conversely, January and December present lower risk levels, with UV Index values of 2 indicating low exposure and longer potential burn times of 45 minutes. It is essential to monitor UV levels year-round and adjust sun protection strategies accordingly to ensure safety.
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 |
| Caunes-Minervois | 2 | 4 | 6 | 7 | 9 | 10 | 10 | 9 | 7 | 5 | 3 | 2 |