Last updated: June 2, 2025
In Fort Macleod, Canada, awareness of the UV Index is crucial for safeguarding your skin and overall health. The varying UV levels throughout the day—peaking at a notable 9 around midday—underscore the importance of sunburn prevention, especially for those enjoying outdoor activities in this Dfb climate, known for its warm summers. Understanding these UV levels helps residents and visitors alike take proactive measures against harmful sun exposure, ensuring the beauty of Fort Macleod is enjoyed safely. Stay informed and protect your skin!
The UV Index today follows a dynamic rise and fall, showcasing its intensity throughout the day. Starting off gently at 1 at 07:00, the sun’s rays gradually increase, reaching 2 by 08:00. As we approach midday, the index spikes, peaking at a robust 9 between 13:00 and 14:00, making these hours the most critical for sun safety. After this zenith, the index begins its descent, sliding down to 6 at 16:00, and tapering off to a more forgiving 2 by 19:00. It's a vivid reminder of the sun's power, urging everyone to take necessary precautions during those peak hours, especially from 12:00 to 14:00!
| 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 | 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 | 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 |
| Fort Macleod | 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 |