Last updated: May 3, 2025
Understanding the UV Index in Canmore, Canada is crucial for safeguarding your skin and promoting overall health. With the beautiful Rocky Mountains surrounding this charming town, it’s easy to underestimate the intensity of sun exposure, especially during peak hours. The UV levels can soar to 8 or even 9 around noon, making awareness essential for preventing sunburn and long-term skin damage. Canmore’s high-altitude, Dfc climate means increased UV radiation, so being informed about daily UV ratings can greatly enhance your outdoor enjoyment while keeping your skin protected. Stay vigilant and enjoy the sun responsibly!
The UV Index today tells a compelling story of sun strength throughout the day. Early risers will notice a gentle start with a maximum of 1 at 7:00 AM, gradually climbing to 2 by 9:00 AM. However, the sun makes its powerful presence felt as the day progresses, hitting a peak of 9 at 2:00 PM. This is when sun protection is crucial, with UV levels reaching their highest intensity. As the afternoon wanes, the index drops gracefully, tapering back to 4 by 5:00 PM and returning to a mild 1 by 7:00 PM. For those planning their outdoor activities, it's vital to embrace the sun's warmth early in the day and take precautions during the afternoon's peak UV intensity!
| 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 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
| 11:00 | 6 | high | 25 min |
| 12:00 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
| 13:00 | 8 | 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 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 19:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
Throughout the year, the UV Index in the region exhibits notable seasonal variations, with the highest levels typically observed from May to August. During these months, particularly in May, June, and July when the UV Index peaks at 9, the exposure category is classified as very high, necessitating urgent precautions due to a burn time of just 15 minutes. As such, visitors and residents are strongly advised to protect their skin by wearing sunscreen, hats, and protective clothing during these high-risk months. April marks the beginning of high UV exposure with an index of 6, while September also presents a significant risk at 7. The UV levels decrease significantly in the cooler months of October through February, allowing for longer safe exposure times, though caution should still be exercised in February and March when UV levels rise moderately. Overall, maintaining awareness of the UV Index can help ensure safe outdoor activities year-round.
UV Risk Categories
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 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 |
| Canmore | 2 | 3 | 5 | 6 | 9 | 9 | 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 |