Last updated: May 3, 2025
In Sète, France, understanding the UV Index is crucial for safeguarding your skin against harmful ultraviolet radiation. With the Mediterranean climate, residents and visitors are often exposed to elevated UV levels, particularly during peak hours, making it essential to know when and how to protect yourself from sunburn and long-term skin damage. The data shows that from late morning to early afternoon, the UV Index can reach as high as 9, signifying the need for diligent sun safety measures. Stay informed about UV levels to enjoy the sun responsibly while prioritizing your skin health!
As the sun rises, the UV Index starts at a maximum of 1 at 7:00 AM, indicating safe sun exposure. By 9:00 AM, it climbs to 2, suggesting that while it’s still mild, some caution is advisable. The index spikes significantly from 10:00 AM, reaching 4, and continues to rise throughout the day. At 12:00 PM, it peaks at an impressive 8, followed closely by a high of 9 at both 1:00 PM and 2:00 PM—perfect times to seek shade or lather on sunscreen! As the afternoon wanes, the UV Index gradually declines to 6 at 4:00 PM, then eases to 3 by 6:00 PM, finally dipping back down to 1 by the evening. Enjoy the sun, but remember to protect your skin during those midday highs!
| 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 | 6 | high | 25 min |
| 12:00 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
| 13:00 | 9 | 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 |
| Sete | 2 | 4 | 6 | 7 | 9 | 10 | 10 | 9 | 7 | 5 | 3 | 2 |
| Toulouse UVI | 2 | 4 | 6 | 7 | 9 | 10 | 10 | 9 | 7 | 5 | 3 | 2 |