Last updated: May 3, 2025
In Gigondas, France, awareness of the UV Index is essential for protecting your skin under the Mediterranean sun. Understanding UV levels not only helps in preventing painful sunburns but also plays a crucial role in maintaining long-term skin health. With a Csa climate, Gigondas typically experiences intense sunlight, especially during peak hours when the UV Index can reach values of 8. This makes it vital for residents and visitors alike to stay informed and take appropriate precautions to shield themselves from harmful UV radiation.
As the sun rises, the UV Index begins its gentle ascent, starting at a low 1 at 07:00 and maintaining that level until 09:00. With the sun climbing higher, it reaches a moderate 2 by 09:00, but things really heat up at 10:00 with a jump to 4. The peak UV exposure occurs between 12:00 and 14:00, where it hits a striking 8, signaling the need for sun protection. Following this intense period, it gradually tapers off, dropping to 7 at 15:00, and continuing down to 4 by 17:00. As the day winds down, the UV Index returns to a low 1 by 19:00, marking the end of the UV cycle. Remember, during those peak hours, it’s crucial to stay protected from those harmful rays!
| 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 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
| 11:00 | 6 | high | 25 min |
| 12:00 | 8 | very high | 15 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 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 19:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
Throughout the year, UV Index levels fluctuate significantly, indicating varying risks of skin damage from sun exposure. The low-risk months are January and December, with UV Index levels of 2, allowing for about 45 minutes of safe sun exposure. As we move into early spring, February and March show a moderate index of 4 and 5, respectively, reducing burn time to 30 minutes. The high-risk months notably occur from April to August, peaking in June with a UV Index of 10, and requiring sunscreen application and minimal exposure after just 15 minutes. September dips to a high level of 7, while October and November present a moderate risk. Visitors and residents should take precautions, particularly during peak summer months by seeking shade, wearing protective clothing, and using sunscreen to minimize skin damage.
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 |
| Gigondas | 2 | 4 | 5 | 7 | 8 | 10 | 9 | 9 | 7 | 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 |