Last updated: July 2, 2025
In the stunning seaside town of Cavalaire-sur-Mer, France, understanding the UV Index is crucial for safeguarding your skin and overall health. With summer highs often reaching a UV Index of 9 during peak hours, awareness of these levels helps prevent painful sunburn and long-term skin damage. The Mediterranean climate offers sun-drenched days that are perfect for outdoor activities, but it also brings heightened risks of UV exposure. By staying informed about the daily UV Index, residents and visitors alike can enjoy the beautiful beaches while protecting their skin against harmful rays.
As the sun rises, the UV Index gradually climbs, starting at a low of 1 by 07:00 and 08:00. The real leap begins at 09:00, where it reaches 3, escalating to 4 by 10:00. As noon approaches, the UV Index peaks at an impressive 9 from 13:00 to 14:00, making it crucial to take protective measures during those hours. Afterward, it begins to taper off, dropping to 6 by 16:00, and further declining through the late afternoon and evening, eventually falling back to 1 by 19:00. For those venturing outdoors, staying vigilant to the UV levels during the midday hours is essential for skin protection!
| 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 | 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, the UV Index reveals significant seasonal changes in sun exposure risks. January and December are the safest months, with a low exposure category and burn times of 45 minutes, while February and March indicate a moderate risk with an elevated UV Index of 4 and 5, respectively. The high-risk period peaks from April to August, where the UV Index climbs to very high levels, particularly in June (10) and July (9), warranting a burn time reduction to just 15 minutes. September sees a slight decrease to a high category (UV Index 7) while October through November return to moderate levels. Visitors and residents should take precautions during high-risk months by applying sunscreen, wearing protective clothing, and seeking shade, especially between April and August when the sun's intensity is at its highest.
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 |
| Cavalaire-sur-Mer | 2 | 4 | 5 | 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 |