UV Index in Fort Macleod, Canada

Last updated: July 2, 2025

Understanding the UV Index in Fort Macleod, Canada, is crucial for maintaining skin health and preventing sunburn, especially during the sunny summer months. With a Dfb climate characterized by warm summers and cold winters, residents and visitors alike need to be vigilant about UV exposure, particularly when the index peaks around midday. The UV Index can reach levels as high as 9, indicating a significant risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure. By staying informed about the daily UV levels, you can take proactive steps to protect your skin and enjoy the beautiful outdoor landscapes Fort Macleod has to offer.

Hourly UV Index in Fort Macleod

During the early hours, the UV Index remains low, peaking at 1 from 07:00 to 08:00. As the sun climbs higher, the index begins to rise sharply, reaching 3 by 09:00 and hitting 4 at 10:00. The intensity escalates significantly around 11:00, soaring to 6, and continues to climb, peaking at a strong 9 from 13:00 to 14:00. The intensity slightly tapers off after that, dropping to 8 at 15:00 and then gradually decreasing through the late afternoon and evening, landing at 2 by 19:00. It's crucial to stay protected during the midday hours when UV radiation is at its highest, especially between 12:00 and 14:00.

Average solar exposure data for the current time of the year. Actual values may vary and depend on many factors, such as cloud cover, vegetation cover, surface type, etc.
TimeUVICategoryTime to Burn
07:001low45 min
08:001low45 min
09:003moderate30 min
10:004moderate30 min
11:006high25 min
12:008very high15 min
13:009very high15 min
14:009very high15 min
15:008very high15 min
16:006high25 min
17:004moderate30 min
18:003moderate30 min
19:002low45 min

Monthly UV Index Trends in Fort Macleod

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.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Fort Macleod, Canada

The monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) represents the highest UV radiation level recorded each month in Fort Macleod. It measures the strength of ultraviolet radiation from the sun and helps assess the risk of sunburn and UV-related health issues.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec235689987421
Data source: Statistical UV Index data for Fort Macleod, based on information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

UV Risk Categories

  •  Extreme (11+): Avoid the sun, stay in shade.
  •  Very High (8-10): Limit sun exposure.
  •  High (6-7): Use SPF 30+ and protective clothing.
  •  Moderate (3-5): Midday shade recommended.
  •  Low (0-2): No protection needed.

Compare Fort Macleod UV Index with Other Canada Cities

The table above highlights how UV exposure in Fort Macleod compares to other major locations across Canada. This comparison helps travelers and residents better understand regional sun intensity and plan outdoor activities with sun safety in mind.
Fort Macleod's solar exposure compared to other cities in Canada. Generated using Copernicus Atmosphere Monitoring Service information.
 JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Edmonton UVI235677876421
Calgary UVI234688987421
Fort Macleod235689987421
Montreal UVI245799887532
Ottawa UVI245899887532
Toronto UVI245899997532