Last updated: May 3, 2025
Awareness of the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors in Force, France, where the climate's temperate nature can often mask the potential risks of sun exposure. Understanding UV levels is essential not just for preventing sunburn, but also for protecting skin health over the long term. As the UV index can reach as high as 8 during midday hours, those enjoying the delightful climate should be cautious and take necessary precautions, especially between 11 AM and 3 PM when UV radiation peaks. Staying informed about the UV Index can help you enjoy the sun safely, ensuring your time outdoors is both pleasurable and secure.
As the sun rises, the UV Index begins its gradual ascent, starting at a mild 1 by 07:00. By 09:00, it nudges up to 2, marking the beginning of greater awareness for sun protection. The intensity peaks at 12:00, with a robust 7, leading to 13:00 and 14:00, where it reaches an impressive 8—the prime time for outdoor activities. As the afternoon light begins to wane, the index dips to 6 by 16:00, and further declines to 4 at 17:00. The evening cools down with a UV Index of 2 by 19:00, reminding us that while sun exposure is crucial for a sunny day, vigilance is key as we enjoy the longer hours of daylight.
| 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 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 11:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 12:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 13:00 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
| 14:00 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
| 15:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 16:00 | 6 | high | 25 min |
| 17:00 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
| 18:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 19:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
Throughout the year, UV exposure fluctuates significantly, with the highest risk months occurring from May to August, when the UV Index reaches levels categorized as very high (UV Index 8-9). During these months, the burn time drastically decreases to just 15 minutes, emphasizing the need for protection. Conversely, the low risk months of January, November, and December offer a safer environment with a UV Index of 2 and a burn time of 45 minutes. As such, visitors and residents should be particularly vigilant during peak summer months by wearing sunscreen, protective clothing, and seeking shade during peak sun hours, while enjoying the milder winter months with less concern for UV exposure.
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 |
| Force | 2 | 3 | 5 | 6 | 8 | 9 | 9 | 8 | 6 | 4 | 2 | 2 |
| 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 |