Last updated: June 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors of Saint-Etienne-de-Tinee, France, a picturesque alpine village nestled in a climate zone that experiences mild summers and snowy winters. With UV levels peaking at a harmful 11 during the midday hours, awareness of these readings becomes essential for preventing sunburn and maintaining skin health. As you enjoy outdoor activities amid the stunning landscapes, knowing when the sun's rays are at their strongest can help safeguard against potential risks. Stay informed and protect your skin while basking in the beauty of this charming locale!
The UV Index throughout the day reveals a notable trend, starting at a calm 1 at 7:00 AM and gradually climbing to its peak of 11 during the peak afternoon hours of 1:00 PM and 2:00 PM. As the sun climbs higher in the sky, the intensity of ultraviolet radiation increases, reaching a sharp rise to 10 by noon, signaling caution for outdoor activities. After the early afternoon, the index begins to decline, drifting down to 5 by 5:00 PM and tapering off to a gentle 1 by 7:00 PM. This data highlights the importance of sun safety, particularly during the mid-day hours when UV exposure is at its strongest. Remember to wear protective clothing and sunscreen when the UV Index rises!
| 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 | 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 |
| Saint-Etienne-de-Tinee | 3 | 5 | 7 | 9 | 9 | 11 | 10 | 9 | 8 | 6 | 3 | 2 |