Last updated: July 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index in Barcelonnette, France is crucial for anyone looking to protect their skin while enjoying the beautiful outdoor climate. With its Cfb climate, Barcelonnette experiences varying UV levels throughout the day, peaking at a notably high index of 10 around midday. Being aware of these levels is essential for preventing sunburn and promoting overall skin health. As you soak up the sun’s rays in this stunning alpine town, knowing when the UV index rises can help you take the necessary precautions to enjoy your time safely and minimize the risk of skin damage. Remember, awareness is your best defense against the sun's powerful rays!
As the sun rises, the UV Index begins its steady ascent, starting at a mild 1 at 7:00 AM. By 8:00 AM, it reaches 2, hinting at the day ahead. As we approach mid-morning, the intensity climbs to 3 by 9:00 AM and then dramatically spikes to 5 at 10:00 AM. The real peak occurs between 12:00 PM and 2:00 PM, where the index soars to a whopping 10, indicating strong sun exposure. This midday intensity begins to taper off by 3:00 PM, as it drops to 9, and continues to slide through the late afternoon, ending the day at 1 by 7:00 PM. It's crucial to stay protected during those peak hours to enjoy the sun safely!
| Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 08:00 | 2 | 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 | 1 | low | 45 min |
Throughout the year, the UV Index displays notable seasonal changes that significantly affect exposure levels. High-risk months for UV radiation include April to August, when the index ranges from 9 to 11, indicating very high to extreme exposure categories, with burn times decreasing to as little as 10 minutes in June. Therefore, it is crucial for both visitors and residents to take protective measures during these months, such as wearing sunblock, hats, and protective clothing, and seeking shade during peak hours. As we transition to fall and winter, the UV levels decrease, with January and November seeing a moderate UV Index of 3 and a longer burn time of 30 minutes, allowing for more relaxed sun exposure; however, caution should still be maintained, especially in brighter outdoor conditions.
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 |
| Barcelonnette | 3 | 5 | 7 | 9 | 9 | 11 | 10 | 9 | 8 | 6 | 3 | 2 |