Last updated: June 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors in Rivesaltes, France, where the Mediterranean climate brings plenty of sunshine but also heightened UV exposure risks. As UV levels can soar to a maximum of 10 during midday, being aware of the UV Index helps you take necessary precautions against sunburn and protect your skin health. Whether you're enjoying outdoor activities or simply soaking up the sun, monitoring these levels is essential in this charming town known for its warm summers. Stay informed and safeguard your skin while enjoying the beautiful weather!
As the day unfolds, the UV Index rises sharply, peaking at a dramatic 10 between 1:00 PM and 2:00 PM—a clear indication that sun protection is crucial during these hours. Starting from a modest 1 at 7:00 AM, the index climbs steadily, reaching 4 by 10:00 AM. By 11:00 AM, it escalates to 7, and just before noon, it hits 9, urging outdoor enthusiasts to take cover or apply sunscreen. The afternoon sees a slight decline, with values tapering to 5 by 5:00 PM and further down to 2 as the sun sets. This dynamic pattern highlights the importance of being sun-smart, especially during the peak hours of 12:00 PM to 2:00 PM.
| 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 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 12:00 | 9 | 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 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 17:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 18:00 | 3 | 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 |
| Toulouse UVI | 2 | 4 | 6 | 7 | 9 | 10 | 10 | 9 | 7 | 5 | 3 | 2 |
| Rivesaltes | 2 | 4 | 5 | 7 | 9 | 10 | 10 | 9 | 7 | 5 | 3 | 2 |