Last updated: July 2, 2025
In the picturesque town of Gap, France, being aware of the UV Index is essential for both sun safety and overall skin health. The UV Index measures the strength of sun's ultraviolet (UV) radiation, which can lead to painful sunburns and long-term skin damage if proper precautions aren't taken. Understanding the varying UV levels throughout the day—especially during the peak hours between noon and 2 PM, when levels reach a maximum of 10—is crucial for residents and visitors alike. Given Gap's Cfb climate, characterized by warm summers and moderate exposure risks, keeping track of the UV Index not only enhances your outdoor enjoyment but also helps protect your skin. Stay informed and enjoy the sunshine safely!
The UV Index reveals a dramatic rise in sun exposure throughout the day, reaching its peak between 1 PM and 2 PM with a striking value of 10. Starting from a low of 1 at 7 AM and 8 AM, the intensity gradually escalates, hitting 4 by 10 AM and then surging to 7 at 11 AM. By noon, the index climbs to 8, and just an hour later, it reaches its maximum. As the afternoon wears on, it begins to taper off, descending to 9 at 3 PM, followed by a steady decline to 5 by 5 PM, and finally returning to 3 by 6 PM and 1 by 7 PM. This data emphasizes the importance of protecting yourself from strong UV rays, particularly during peak hours!
| 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 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 12:00 | 8 | 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, 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 |
| Toulouse UVI | 2 | 4 | 6 | 7 | 9 | 10 | 10 | 9 | 7 | 5 | 3 | 2 |
| Gap | 2 | 4 | 6 | 7 | 9 | 10 | 10 | 9 | 7 | 5 | 3 | 2 |