Last updated: June 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents of Whitecourt, Canada, as it plays a key role in safeguarding your skin from harmful effects of sun exposure. With typical UV levels peaking at 7 during the afternoon, awareness of these levels can help you make informed decisions on sun safety, ultimately preventing sunburn and promoting better skin health. Whitecourt's Dfc climate offers a range of outdoor activities, but it's essential to stay vigilant about UV exposure, especially during those sunny summer days when the risk can significantly increase. Stay informed, stay safe, and enjoy the sunshine responsibly!
As the sun rises, the UV Index begins its ascent, peaking around midday. At 07:00, the index starts at a mild 1, barely warranting concern. By 09:00, it climbs to 3, signaling a little more caution as the day unfolds. The real intensity kicks in by 11:00, reaching a noteworthy 5, and peaks at 12:00 with a level of 6. The height of the day comes at 13:00, when the UV Index hits 7, making sun protection essential. This high level remains steady until 15:00, before gradually descending to 4 by 17:00 and tapering off to 2 as the sun sets at 19:00. Plan your day wisely, especially during those peak hours from 11:00 to 15:00!
| 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 | 6 | 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 |
The UV Index exhibits notable seasonal fluctuations, with the highest levels occurring during the summer months. July is identified as the peak month, featuring a UV Index of 8, categorized as very high, where the burn time is reduced to just 15 minutes. Following closely are May and June with an index of 7, indicating a high risk of UV exposure. Visitors and residents should exercise increased caution from May to August, particularly in July, by seeking shade, wearing protective clothing, and applying sunscreen frequently. In contrast, the winter months, particularly January, February, November, and December, present a low UV exposure risk, allowing for more comfortable outdoor activities with less concern for skin damage. Always consider the UV Index when planning outdoor activities to ensure safety and health.
UV Risk Categories
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Whitecourt | 1 | 2 | 4 | 5 | 7 | 7 | 8 | 7 | 6 | 3 | 2 | 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 |