Last updated: July 2, 2025
In Westlock, Canada, understanding the UV Index is crucial for protecting your skin from harmful ultraviolet rays. Knowing the UV levels can help residents prevent sunburn, reduce the risk of skin cancer, and maintain overall skin health. With Westlock's Dfb climate, there are specific UV exposure risks to consider, especially during summer months when midday levels can reach as high as 8. By staying informed about the UV Index, you can enjoy the beauty of the outdoors while safeguarding your skin against potential damage.
As the day unfolds, the UV Index reveals a dynamic pattern of increasing intensity. In the early hours of 7:00 AM and 8:00 AM, the index remains low at 1, indicating minimal risk. However, by 9:00 AM, it begins to climb, reaching 3. The peak intensity strikes between 12:00 PM and 2:00 PM, with the index hitting its highest point of 8, a clear reminder to seek shade and wear protective gear. As the afternoon wanes, the index gradually fluctuates downward—from 7 at 3:00 PM to 4 by 5:00 PM, before settling at 2 by 7:00 PM. This hourly progression underscores the importance of sun safety as the UV rays take a toll throughout the day.
| Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 08:00 | 1 | 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 | 8 | very high | 15 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, 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 | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Westlock | 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 |