Last updated: June 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index in Saint-Chaffrey, France, is crucial for protecting your skin and promoting overall health. As a picturesque alpine village nestled in a Dfc climate zone, Saint-Chaffrey experiences varying UV exposure levels throughout the day, peaking at a significant 11 between noon and 2 PM. Being aware of these UV levels is essential to prevent sunburn and long-term skin damage, allowing you to enjoy the outdoors while safeguarding your well-being. With its stunning landscapes and sunny days, knowing how to manage your sun exposure can make all the difference in keeping your skin safe and healthy!
As the sun rises, the UV Index begins its ascent, starting at a mild 1 by 7:00 AM. By 9:00 AM, it climbs to 3, suggesting a need for some sun protection. The midday sun peaks at 12:00 PM with a striking 10—definitely a time for caution! The highest UV exposure occurs between 1:00 PM and 2:00 PM, reaching a formidable 11, signaling the most intense rays of the day. As the afternoon wanes, the index gradually dips, dropping to 7 by 4:00 PM and further diminishing to a safe 2 by the evening hours, making those later activities in the sun significantly less harmful. Plan your day with these UV levels in mind for optimal sun safety!
| 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 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
| 12:00 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
| 13:00 | 11 | extreme | 10 min |
| 14:00 | 11 | extreme | 10 min |
| 15:00 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
| 16:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 17:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 18:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 19:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
Throughout the year, UV Index levels fluctuate significantly, with high-risk months primarily from March to October. Starting in March, the UV Index escalates to 7 (high) and peaks in June at 11 (extreme), indicating the need for heightened caution. April and May also present very high levels (9 and 10, respectively), while July through September remain in the very high category, with UV Index values ranging from 8 to 10. As a warning, individuals should pay close attention to their exposure during these months and minimize time spent in direct sunlight, especially during peak hours. It is essential for both residents and visitors to protect their skin by applying sunscreen, wearing protective clothing, and seeking shade whenever possible, particularly between April and September when burn times decrease to as little as 10 to 15 minutes. As the year progresses into November and December, UV levels decrease to moderate and low, allowing for safer 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 |
| 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 |
| Saint-Chaffrey | 3 | 5 | 7 | 9 | 10 | 11 | 10 | 9 | 8 | 6 | 3 | 2 |