Last updated: June 2, 2025
In Swan Hills, Canada, understanding the UV Index is crucial for safeguarding your skin health. With the region's Dfc climate, residents face varying levels of UV exposure throughout the day, particularly peaking between 12 PM and 3 PM, when the index can soar to 7. Being aware of these levels is essential for preventing sunburn and lowering the risk of long-term skin damage. By keeping an eye on the UV Index, you can enjoy the sun responsibly while protecting your skin throughout the changing seasons.
The UV Index today starts off mildly at 1 by 7:00 AM, gradually ramping up as the sun climbs higher in the sky. By 10:00 AM, it reaches a moderate 4, signaling a shift as the rays become more intense. The peak UV Index of 7 occurs between 12:00 PM and 15:00 PM, highlighting the importance of sun protection during these hours. As the afternoon wanes, the index begins to drop, landing at 5 by 4:00 PM and gently retreating to 3 by 6:00 PM. Even in the evening, it's wise to remain vigilant, as the UV levels linger between 2 and 3. Plan your day accordingly to enjoy the sun safely!
| 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 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 13:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 14:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 15:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 16:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 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 notable fluctuations, indicating varying levels of sun exposure risk. January and February see low UV levels (1-2), allowing for a safe burn time of 45 minutes. As spring approaches, March and April bring moderate levels (4-5) with reduced burn times of 30 minutes. The highest risk occurs in the summer months, particularly July, when the UV Index peaks at 8, categorizing it as very high, and necessitating a cautious burn time of only 15 minutes. May and June also pose high risks (UV Index 7) with burn times of 25 minutes. As summer fades into fall, August and September maintain high levels, but the risk decreases in October to a moderate index (3). Finally, November and December drop back to low UV levels (1), allowing for prolonged exposure without significant risk. Visitors and residents are strongly advised to take protective measures, particularly during the high-risk months of May through September, by wearing sunscreen, hats, and protective clothing to mitigate the risks associated with UV exposure.
UV Risk Categories
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Swan Hills | 1 | 2 | 4 | 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 |