Last updated: May 3, 2025
Being aware of the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors of Saint-Martin-de-Queyrieres, France, where the alpine climate can lead to unexpected sun exposure. Understanding UV levels helps in preventing sunburn and protecting skin health, especially during peak hours when the index reaches a maximum of 10 around midday. With the region's temperate climate and elevated UV risks, particularly from late spring to early summer, staying informed is vital for enjoying the beautiful outdoors safely. Whether hiking through the stunning landscapes or simply relaxing in the sun, being mindful of the UV Index can significantly enhance your overall well-being.
As the sun rises, the UV Index begins at a mild 1 at 7:00 AM and remains steady until 9:00 AM. However, the real heat of the day kicks in as we approach midday; by 11:00 AM, the index soars to 7 and peaks at an impressive 10 at 1:00 PM. Just past noon, we see a slight decline, with values dropping to 9 at 2:00 PM and settling at 6 by 4:00 PM. As the sun begins to lower in the sky, the intensity eases, trailing down to 3 by 6:00 PM and returning to 1 by the evening. It's essential to stay protected during those peak hours, especially from 11 AM to 2 PM, when the sun's rays are at their strongest!
| 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 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 11:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 12:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 13:00 | 10 | 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 |
The seasonal changes in UV index reveal a significant increase in solar radiation from late winter into summer. January and February see moderate UV exposure with indices of 3 and 5, respectively, where burn time is 30 minutes. However, as we enter March through June, the UV index escalates dramatically, reaching a peak of 11 in June, classified as extreme, with burn times dropping to just 10 minutes. July and August maintain a very high level of UV exposure at 10, while September sees a slight decrease to 8. October marks a return to high exposure with a UV index of 6, while November and December return to moderate and low levels, suggesting burn times lengthen to 30 and 45 minutes, respectively. Visitors and residents are advised to exercise caution during high-risk months from March to September, particularly at noon when the sun's rays are the strongest. Regular use of sunscreen, protective clothing, and avoidance of prolonged sun exposure are essential during these peak times to minimize the risk of 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 |
| 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-Martin-de-Queyrieres | 3 | 5 | 8 | 9 | 10 | 11 | 10 | 10 | 8 | 6 | 3 | 2 |