Last updated: July 2, 2025
In Fort Nelson, Canada, understanding the UV Index is vital for maintaining skin health and preventing sunburn. As a community located in a Dfc climate zone, Fort Nelson experiences significant seasonal variations in UV exposure, particularly during the summer months when UV levels can peak at 7 during midday hours. By being aware of these UV levels, residents and visitors can take proactive steps to protect themselves from harmful ultraviolet radiation, ensuring that fun in the sun doesn’t come at the cost of their skin’s health. Stay informed and enjoy the beautiful outdoors safely!
The UV Index reveals a dynamic pattern throughout the day, peaking at 7 between 1 PM and 2 PM. Early risers will experience a mild index of 1 at 7 AM, gradually increasing to 2 by 8 AM. As the sun climbs higher, the index escalates quickly, reaching 4 at 10 AM, and hitting 5 at 11 AM. By noon, it further intensifies to 6, showcasing the sun's potency. As afternoon sets in, the index remains strong at 7 before gently declining to 6 by 3 PM and tapering off to 4 by 4 PM. As evening approaches, the UV intensity drops steadily, landing at 1 by 7 PM, a gentle reminder to enjoy the sun wisely.
| 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 | 6 | high | 25 min |
| 13:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 14:00 | 7 | 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, UV index levels fluctuate significantly, indicating varying risks of sun exposure. January through February are relatively safe months, with a low UV index of 1-2 and a burn time of 45 minutes. As spring approaches, March and April show a rise to a moderate UV index of 3-4 with reduced burn times of 30 minutes. The summer months, particularly May to August, present the highest risk, featuring high UV index values of 6-7 and short burn times of 25 minutes. July emerges as the peak risk month. In September and October, UV exposure moderate again, with indices of 5 and 3, while November and December return to a low UV risk. Residents and visitors are advised to take precautions during high-risk months, including wearing protective clothing, applying sunscreen, and limiting sun exposure, particularly between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.
UV Risk Categories
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Fort Nelson | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 6 | 6 | 7 | 6 | 5 | 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 |