Last updated: July 2, 2025
Being aware of the UV Index is essential for residents and visitors in Sainte-Foy, France, particularly during the summer months when the sun is at its strongest. Understanding UV levels is crucial not just for preventing painful sunburns but also for maintaining long-term skin health. With typical midday UV Index values peaking at 9, the alpine climate of Sainte-Foy presents unique risks that can lead to harmful effects from overexposure. Whether you're enjoying outdoor activities or just soaking up the sun, keeping an eye on the UV Index can help ensure your time in this beautiful region is both enjoyable and safe.
As the day unfolds, the UV Index climbs steadily, peaking from 9 between 14:00 and 15:00. Early morning hours provide minimal exposure with a UV Index of 1 at 07:00 and 08:00. The sun's intensity increases to 3 by 10:00 and surges to 7 at noon, marking the start of heightened sun safety awareness. By 13:00, the index reaches a sizzling 8, indicating the need for precautions against harmful rays. As the afternoon wanes, the UV Index gradually dips, falling to 5 by 17:00 and 4 by 18:00. Post-sunset, it returns to 2 at 19:00, offering a reprieve as the evening settles in. Stay protected during those peak hours!
| 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 | 9 | 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 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
| 19:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
Throughout the year, UV index levels fluctuate significantly, indicating varying exposure risks for both visitors and residents. From January to April, the UV index gradually increases from 2 (low) to 6 (high), with April marking the beginning of heightened caution. The high-risk months for UV exposure are May through August, where the index peaks at 9 (very high) for both June and July, necessitating careful sun protection measures, including sunscreen application and protective clothing, as burn times drop to just 15 minutes. As summer transitions to autumn, the index decreases, bringing lower risks with September falling back to 6 (high) and gradually lowering through the fall and winter months. Residents and visitors are advised to monitor UV levels regularly, especially during the peak summer months, to ensure safety while enjoying outdoor activities.
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 |
| Sainte-Foy | 2 | 3 | 5 | 6 | 8 | 9 | 9 | 8 | 6 | 5 | 3 | 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 |