Last updated: June 2, 2025
In Port-aux-Francais, located in the unique climate of the ET zone, being aware of the UV Index is vital for maintaining skin health and preventing sunburn. Understanding the varying UV levels throughout the day can empower residents and visitors alike to take necessary precautions against harmful sun exposure, especially during the peak hours when risks may slightly increase. With UV levels generally peaking at 1 throughout the day, it’s essential to stay informed and protect your skin—even in the cooler climates of the French Southern Territories. Stay safe and enjoy the breathtaking beauty of this remote locale!
Throughout the day, the UV Index exhibits a distinct pattern, with the sun's intensity gradually increasing as the hours progress. From 07:00 to 08:00, the UV Index remains at a low level of 0, indicating minimal exposure risk. However, starting at 09:00, it slowly climbs to 1, maintaining this level until 16:00. This period, characterized by a sustained UV Index of 1, suggests that while the sun is visible, precautions like sunscreen and protective clothing are still advisable, especially during midday. As evening approaches, from 17:00 onward, the UV Index drops back to 0, signaling a return to safety from the sun's rays. It's a day that reminds us to enjoy the outdoors while staying sun-smart!
| Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07:00 | 0 | low | 45 min |
| 08:00 | 0 | low | 45 min |
| 09:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 10:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 11:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 12:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 13:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 14:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 15:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 16:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 17:00 | 0 | low | 45 min |
| 18:00 | 0 | low | 45 min |
| 19:00 | 0 | low | 45 min |
The UV Index exhibits significant seasonal variations, with the highest levels occurring in winter and early spring. January starts the year with an extreme UV Index of 11, leading to a burn time of just 10 minutes. This intensity drops slightly in February (UV Index 9, 15 minutes) and peaks again in November (UV Index 9, 15 minutes). March sees a high UV Index of 7 (25 minutes), highlighting the transition to increasing sunlight. As spring progresses, UV levels decline through April (UV Index 4, 30 minutes) and remain low during May and June (UV Index 2 and 1, 45 minutes). Conditions rise again in August (UV Index 3, 30 minutes) and October (UV Index 7, 25 minutes), marking moderate risk months. December sees another spike to extreme levels (UV Index 12, 10 minutes). For high-risk months—particularly January, February, March, and November—visitors and residents are advised to take extra precautions, such as using high-SPF sunscreen, wearing protective clothing, and seeking shade to minimize UV exposure.
UV Risk Categories
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Port-aux-Francais | 11 | 9 | 7 | 4 | 2 | 1 | 1 | 3 | 5 | 7 | 9 | 12 |