UV Index in Fort McMurray, Canada

Last updated: July 2, 2025

In Fort McMurray, Canada, being aware of the UV Index is essential for protecting your skin and overall health. Understanding UV levels can help you prevent sunburn and minimize long-term skin damage, especially during the peak exposure hours in this Dfb climate zone, where the sun's intensity can reach levels of 7 as early as 1 PM. With the striking beauty of Fort McMurray’s natural landscapes, enjoying outdoor activities is tempting—but it’s crucial to stay informed about UV risks to ensure your time in the sun remains safe and enjoyable. Stay vigilant, and protect yourself from harmful rays!

Hourly UV Index in Fort McMurray

As the sun rises, the UV Index begins its climb, starting at a mild 1 at 7:00 AM. By 9:00 AM, it reaches a moderate 3, encouraging early risers to consider sun protection. The intensity peaks at 12:00 PM with a vigorous 6, signaling the need for caution. The afternoon sees the UV Index remain high, hitting 7 at 1:00 PM and 2:00 PM, before gradually tapering to 4 by 5:00 PM. As evening approaches, the UV levels decrease, dropping back to a safe 1 by 7:00 PM. Staying informed about these fluctuations can help you enjoy the sun while staying safe!

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.
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	5	moderate	30 min
12:00	6	high	25 min
13:00	7	high	25 min
14:00	7	high	25 min
15:00	6	high	25 min
16:00	5	moderate	30 min
17:00	4	moderate	30 min
18:00	2	low	45 min
19:00	1	low	45 min

Monthly UV Index Trends in Fort McMurray

Throughout the year, UV exposure fluctuates, with high-risk months occurring from May to August, when the UV Index reaches 6 or 7, indicating heightened risk for skin damage. In these months, burn time for unprotected skin reduces to just 25 minutes. Moderate levels in March, April, September, and October suggest a more cautious approach is still warranted, allowing for 30 minutes of exposure before risking a burn. Conversely, the winter months of January, February, November, and December feature a low UV Index of 1 or 2, with burn times of 45 minutes, making them safer for prolonged outdoor activities. It’s essential for visitors and residents alike to scale their sun exposure accordingly, ensuring proper skin protection during the high-risk months and enjoying the lower risks opportunistically in the winter.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Fort McMurray, Canada

The monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) represents the highest UV radiation level recorded each month in Fort McMurray. It measures the strength of ultraviolet radiation from the sun and helps assess the risk of sunburn and UV-related health issues.

Data source: Statistical UV Index data for Fort McMurray, 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 McMurray UV Index with Other Canada Cities

The table above highlights how UV exposure in Fort McMurray 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 McMurray's solar exposure compared to other cities in Canada. Generated using Copernicus Atmosphere Monitoring Service information.
	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Fort McMurray	1	2	3	5	6	7	7	6	5	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