Last updated: June 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors in Prades, France, particularly given the region's Cfb climate, which provides a mix of mild temperatures and ample sunshine. As UV levels can rise significantly throughout the day—peaking as high as 11 during midday—awareness is key to preventing sunburn and protecting your skin health. By tracking these levels, you can make informed decisions about sun exposure and safeguard yourself against the adverse effects of UV radiation during your time in this picturesque town.
As the day unfolds, the UV Index rises steadily, peaking at an impressive 11 by 2 PM. Starting at a gentle 1 in the early morning hours, it rapidly climbs to 5 by 10 AM and hits 7 by 11 AM. The sun’s intensity reaches its zenith at 1 PM, marked by a scorching 10, before slightly receding to 8 at 4 PM. As the afternoon transitions into evening, the index tapers off to 6 at 5 PM, and continues to decline, settling at a mild 2 by 7 PM. This data serves as a crucial reminder to take safety precautions during peak sun exposure, especially from 12 PM to 3 PM, when the risk of UV damage is highest.
| Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 08:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 09:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 10:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 11:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 12:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 13:00 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
| 14:00 | 11 | extreme | 10 min |
| 15:00 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
| 16:00 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
| 17:00 | 6 | high | 25 min |
| 18:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 19:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
Throughout the year, UV Index levels fluctuate significantly, creating varying exposure risks for individuals. The high-risk months for UV exposure are April through August, with the highest readings occurring in June and July, where the UV Index reaches a peak of 11, classified as extreme. During these months, the recommended burn time drops to just 10 minutes. As such, it is crucial for both visitors and residents to adopt protective measures, including wearing sunscreen, protective clothing, and limiting sun exposure during peak hours. March marks the transition to higher UV levels, with an index of 6, while September and October drop back to high and moderate levels, respectively. Ultimately, staying informed about UV levels can help safeguard health 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 |
| Toulouse UVI | 2 | 4 | 6 | 7 | 9 | 10 | 10 | 9 | 7 | 5 | 3 | 2 |
| Prades | 3 | 4 | 6 | 8 | 9 | 11 | 11 | 9 | 8 | 6 | 3 | 2 |