Last updated: September 1, 2025
In Jasper, Canada, understanding the UV Index is essential for protecting your skin and maintaining overall health. With peak values reaching as high as 8 during the summer months, awareness of UV levels can help you prevent sunburn and reduce the risk of long-term skin issues. This picturesque destination, characterized by its Dfc climate, features unique outdoor adventures that expose visitors to varying UV risks. By keeping an eye on the UV Index, you can enjoy Jasper’s stunning landscapes while ensuring you are prepared to safeguard your skin from harmful ultraviolet radiation.
The UV Index throughout the day reflects a gradual increase in intensity, peaking at 8 between 1 PM and 3 PM, indicating very high levels of UV radiation. Early risers will experience mild conditions, with UV Index values of 1 from 7 AM to 9 AM, perfect for outdoor activities with minimal sun protection. As the day progresses, the index climbs steadily; 10 AM sees a jump to 4, hinting at rising sun strength. It then surges to 6 by 11 AM, reaching a maximum of 7 at noon. From this point, the UV levels remain notably high, emphasizing the need for sunscreen and protective clothing. By the evening, the UV Index tapers off to 3 at 6 PM and finally settles at 2 by 7 PM, allowing for a safer end to the day’s adventures.
| Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07:00 | 0 | low | 45 min |
| 08:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 09:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 10:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 11:00 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
| 12:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 13:00 | 6 | high | 25 min |
| 14:00 | 6 | high | 25 min |
| 15:00 | 6 | high | 25 min |
| 16:00 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
| 17:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 18:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 19:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
Throughout the year, the UV Index demonstrates significant seasonal variations, impacting sun exposure safety for visitors and residents. January and February start with low to moderate levels (UV Index 2 and 3), allowing for longer burn times of 45 and 30 minutes, respectively. As spring progresses into March and April, the UV Index rises to moderate and high levels (5 and 6), reducing safe sun exposure times to 30 and 25 minutes. The high-risk months commence in May and persist through August, where the UV Index reaches a peak of 8 and sunburn can occur in as little as 15 minutes. September sees a decline back to a high category (UV Index 6) with a burn time of 25 minutes, before returning to moderate conditions in October. November and December present a significant drop to low levels (UV Index 2 and 1), allowing for burn times of up to 45 minutes. Visitors and residents are advised to take precautions during the high-risk months from May to August by wearing sunscreen, protective clothing, and seeking shade to minimize 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 |
| Jasper | 2 | 3 | 5 | 6 | 8 | 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 |