Last updated: June 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors in Saint-Etienne-du-Valdonnez, France, where the sun's intensity can pose significant risks to skin health. With peak UV levels often reaching 10 during midday hours, awareness becomes essential for sunburn prevention and long-term skin protection. The region's oceanic climate (Cfb), characterized by mild temperatures, does not diminish the need for vigilance against harmful UV radiation. By monitoring the UV Index, you can enjoy the beautiful outdoors safely while minimizing the risk of sun-related health issues.
As the sun rises, the UV Index starts off low, hitting just 1 by 07:00 and maintaining that level through 08:00. However, as the morning progresses, anticipation builds with a steady climb to 3 by 09:00 and peaking at a noteworthy 5 by 10:00. The intensity escalates sharply, reaching a maximum of 10 between 13:00 and 14:00, indicating a significant risk for unprotected skin. Gradually, the UV Index begins to decline, dropping back to 9 at 15:00 and easing down to 5, 3, and finally 2 as the day winds down through 17:00 to 19:00. A day to remember for sun seekers, but remember to apply that sunscreen during peak hours!
| 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 | 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 |
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 |
| Saint-Etienne-du-Valdonnez | 2 | 4 | 6 | 7 | 9 | 10 | 10 | 9 | 7 | 5 | 3 | 2 |