Last updated: July 2, 2025
In Grande Prairie, Canada, being aware of the UV Index is crucial for maintaining skin health and preventing sunburn, especially given the region's unique climate. With a Dfc climate, residents and visitors alike experience varying levels of UV exposure, peaking between 11:00 AM and 2:00 PM when the index can reach as high as 8. Understanding these UV levels is essential for protecting your skin from harmful rays while enjoying the outdoors, allowing you to embrace the beauty of Grande Prairie with confidence and care.
Morning dawns with a mild UV Index, peaking at 1 between 7:00 and 8:00. As the sun climbs higher, the intensity gradually increases, reaching 2 at 9:00 and then soaring to 5 by 11:00. The UV Index hits its peak at 8 by 14:00, a clear signal for sun safety! After this maximum, it begins to taper off, dropping to 4 at 17:00 and settling down to a comfortable 2 by 19:00. So, whether you're basking in the sun or seeking shade, remember to keep an eye on that UV Index!
| 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 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 11:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 12:00 | 6 | high | 25 min |
| 13:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 14:00 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
| 15:00 | 7 | high | 25 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, UV radiation levels show significant seasonal variation. The high-risk months for UV exposure are from May to July, peaking in July with a UV Index of 8, indicating a very high risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure and a burn time of just 15 minutes. Visitors and residents during these months should take precautions such as wearing sunscreen, protective clothing, and seeking shade. As summer transitions to fall, the UV Index gradually decreases, moving to moderate levels by October and returning to low during the winter months of January, November, and December. Thus, it is essential to stay vigilant about UV exposure, especially between late spring and summer, to protect your skin and overall health.
UV Risk Categories
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Grande Prairie | 1 | 2 | 3 | 5 | 7 | 7 | 8 | 7 | 6 | 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 |