Last updated: July 2, 2025
In Westlake, Canada, understanding the UV Index is essential for protecting your skin and promoting overall health. With the potential for sunburn rising significantly during peak hours—especially as the UV Index reaches levels of 6 to 8 between 12 PM and 3 PM—being aware of these fluctuations can help you take the necessary precautions. Given Westlake's Dfc climate, characterized by cold winters and warm summers, residents are particularly vulnerable to harmful UV exposure during sunny days. By staying informed about UV levels, you can enjoy the outdoors safely while safeguarding your skin from long-term damage.
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 | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Westlake | 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 |