Last updated: June 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is essential for residents of Hinton, Canada, where the unique Dfc climate contributes to varying UV exposure throughout the day. Monitoring UV levels is vital not only for preventing painful sunburns but also for safeguarding long-term skin health. With peak UV Index values reaching 8 during the sunniest hours, local residents must stay informed to enjoy outdoor activities safely while minimizing the risk of skin damage. By being aware of the UV Index, you can make informed decisions to protect yourself and your loved ones under Hinton's bright skies.
As the sun rises, the UV Index begins its ascent, starting off low at 1 at 07:00 and remaining steady through 08:00. By 09:00, it nudges up to 2, signaling a gradual intensification. The index reaches a noticeable 4 at 10:00, but it isn't until noon that it peaks at a striking 7. Both 12:00 and 13:00 maintain this high level, emphasizing the need for sun protection. The highest reading of the day occurs at 14:00, hitting 8, indicating a significant risk for unprotected skin. As the afternoon wanes, the index begins to decline, tapering to 6 by 16:00, then 4 at 17:00, and finally resting at 2 by 19:00. This data underscores the importance of being mindful of sun exposure, particularly during the midday hours when UV radiation is at its strongest.
| 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 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
| 11:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 12:00 | 7 | 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 levels fluctuate significantly, with notable peaks during the summer months. From May to August, the UV Index rises sharply, reaching its highest levels of 8, categorized as very high. This corresponds to a reduced burn time of only 15 minutes, indicating that individuals should take extra precautions to protect their skin during these high-risk months. March through April and September also present moderate to high UV exposure, with indices between 4 and 6, and a burn time of up to 30 minutes. Residents and visitors are advised to use sunscreen, wear protective clothing, and seek shade, particularly in the peak months of June, July, and August, to minimize the risk of skin damage. During the winter months, particularly January and December, UV exposure decreases significantly, categorized as low, allowing for more relaxed sun safety measures.
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 |
| Hinton | 1 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 7 | 8 | 8 | 8 | 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 |