Last updated: June 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents of Athabasca, Canada, especially given the region's Dfb climate, which features significant seasonal variability in sun exposure. As UV levels can peak at a moderate 7 during midday hours, being aware of these fluctuations is essential for preventing sunburn and protecting your skin health. In this beautiful northern town, where sunny days can often catch you off guard, awareness of the UV Index can make all the difference in safeguarding your wellbeing while enjoying outdoor activities. Stay informed, stay protected!
The UV Index starts off mildly low at 1 at 7:00 AM, gradually climbing throughout the morning. By 10:00 AM, it reaches a moderate 4, with significant exposure risk beginning around 11:00 AM as it spikes to 6. The highest levels occur from 12:00 PM to 2:00 PM, maintaining a strong 7 during peak hours—perfect for sun enthusiasts but a cause for caution. As the afternoon progresses, the index gradually declines, dropping to 4 by 5:00 PM and further down to 1 by 7:00 PM. This reveals a clear pattern: the midday sun offers the greatest intensity, so sun safety measures are crucial during those hours.
| 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 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
| 11:00 | 6 | high | 25 min |
| 12:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 13:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 14:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 15:00 | 6 | high | 25 min |
| 16:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 17:00 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
| 18:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 19:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
Throughout the year, the UV Index experiences notable fluctuations, indicating varying levels of sun exposure risk. January and February see low UV levels (1-2), allowing for a safe burn time of 45 minutes. As spring approaches, March and April bring moderate levels (4-5) with reduced burn times of 30 minutes. The highest risk occurs in the summer months, particularly July, when the UV Index peaks at 8, categorizing it as very high, and necessitating a cautious burn time of only 15 minutes. May and June also pose high risks (UV Index 7) with burn times of 25 minutes. As summer fades into fall, August and September maintain high levels, but the risk decreases in October to a moderate index (3). Finally, November and December drop back to low UV levels (1), allowing for prolonged exposure without significant risk. Visitors and residents are strongly advised to take protective measures, particularly during the high-risk months of May through September, by wearing sunscreen, hats, and protective clothing to mitigate the risks associated with UV exposure.
UV Risk Categories
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Athabasca | 1 | 2 | 4 | 5 | 7 | 7 | 8 | 7 | 6 | 3 | 1 | 1 |
| Edmonton UVI | 2 | 3 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 7 | 8 | 7 | 6 | 4 | 2 | 1 |
| Calgary UVI | 2 | 3 | 4 | 6 | 8 | 8 | 9 | 8 | 7 | 4 | 2 | 1 |
| Montreal UVI | 2 | 4 | 5 | 7 | 9 | 9 | 8 | 8 | 7 | 5 | 3 | 2 |
| Ottawa UVI | 2 | 4 | 5 | 8 | 9 | 9 | 8 | 8 | 7 | 5 | 3 | 2 |
| Toronto UVI | 2 | 4 | 5 | 8 | 9 | 9 | 9 | 9 | 7 | 5 | 3 | 2 |