Last updated: June 2, 2025
In Prats de Mollo, France, understanding the UV Index is essential for protecting your skin and promoting overall health. With peak UV levels soaring to as high as 11 around midday, the risk of sunburn and long-term skin damage increases significantly. This charming village, nestled in a Cfb climate zone, experiences a mix of temperate weather, but its high-altitude location brings about intense UV exposure, particularly during sunny days. Staying informed about UV levels not only helps prevent sunburn but also safeguards against the potential long-term effects of UV radiation, ensuring you enjoy the beauty of Prats de Mollo safely and responsibly.
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 |
| Prats de Mollo | 3 | 4 | 6 | 8 | 9 | 11 | 11 | 9 | 8 | 6 | 3 | 2 |