Last updated: July 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is vital for residents of Beaverlodge, Canada, especially given its climate zone (Dfc), which can expose individuals to varying levels of ultraviolet radiation throughout the year. Knowing the UV levels is crucial for preventing sunburn and protecting your skin health, as even a brief period of exposure can lead to harmful effects. With peak UV levels reaching a high of 7 during midday, it’s important for residents to be aware of their risk of overexposure, particularly in the sunnier months. By staying informed about the UV Index, you can enjoy the outdoors while keeping yourself safe from potential damage.
The UV Index throughout the day follows a characteristic upward trend, starting from a gentle 1 at 07:00 and gradually climbing to a peak of 7 between 13:00 and 15:00. This period of intensity signifies the highest level of UV exposure, making midday the most crucial time for sun protection. As the sun begins to dip, the UV Index decreases to 6 by 16:00, then gradually falls back to 2 by 19:00. For those planning outdoor activities, it's essential to stay vigilant, especially during the hours when the UV Index is at its highest; enjoy the sunshine, but don’t forget the sunscreen!
| Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 08:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 09:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 10:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 11:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 12:00 | 6 | high | 25 min |
| 13:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 14:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 15:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 16:00 | 6 | 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 exposure varies significantly, with the highest risk months occurring from May through September when the UV Index reaches 7, indicating a high exposure category and a burn time of only 25 minutes. In contrast, the winter months of January, February, November, and December present a much lower risk, characterized by a UV Index of 1 and a burn time of 45 minutes. As the seasons change, it is crucial for both visitors and residents to remain vigilant during the high-risk months by seeking shade, wearing protective clothing, and applying sunscreen regularly to mitigate the risks associated with increased UV exposure. Additionally, during the moderate months of March, April, October, and early spring, take caution and enjoy the sun responsibly.
UV Risk Categories
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Beaverlodge | 1 | 2 | 3 | 5 | 7 | 7 | 7 | 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 |