Last updated: June 2, 2025
In Claresholm, Canada, staying informed about the UV Index is crucial for protecting your skin against harmful ultraviolet rays. The UV Index measures the strength of sun's UV radiation, helping residents understand when the risk of sunburn is at its highest—especially between 11:00 AM and 3:00 PM, when levels can spike to an intense 9. In this Dfb climate, characterized by cold winters and warm summers, the potential for harmful UV exposure can vary, making it essential to know when to seek shade or apply sunscreen. By understanding the UV levels, you can enjoy the outdoors while safeguarding your skin health and reducing the risk of long-term damage.
As the sun rises, the UV Index begins its ascent, peaking at 9 around 1 PM, signaling the need for sun protection. The day starts off gently at 7 AM with a UV index of 1, gradually increasing to 2 by 8 AM. It reaches 4 at 10 AM and surges to 6 by 11 AM, warning us that midday rays are becoming more intense. At 12 PM, the UV index peaks at an impressive 8, followed closely by 9 at 1 PM—the most critical hour to stay shaded and protected. As afternoon settles in, there’s a slight decline to 8 at 2 PM, maintaining a strong intensity until 3 PM. By 4 PM, the index starts to dip to 6, continuing its descent through the evening hours, finishing the day at 2 by 7 PM, bringing relief from the midday sun. Remember, as the day heats up, protecting your skin is crucial!
| 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 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
| 13:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 14:00 | 8 | 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 | 2 | low | 45 min |
Throughout the year, the UV Index experiences significant seasonal changes, impacting outdoor activities and skin protection needs. January and November see low UV levels (Index 2), allowing for longer exposure times of 45 minutes without risk of burning. As winter ends and spring arrives, the UV Index rises to 6 in April, marking a shift to high risk, with a burn time of just 25 minutes. The summer months of May through August reach their peak, showcasing very high levels (UVI 8-9) and a much shorter burn time of only 15 minutes. In September, the risk remains elevated at a UVI of 7, while October drops back to moderate levels (UVI 4). Residents and visitors are advised to take precautions during the high-risk months from April to September by seeking shade, wearing protective clothing, and applying sunscreen regularly to minimize UV exposure and reduce the risk of skin damage.
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 |
| Claresholm | 2 | 3 | 5 | 6 | 8 | 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 |