Last updated: May 3, 2025
In Fort Nelson, Canada, being aware of the UV Index is crucial for protecting your skin and promoting overall health. Understanding UV levels helps residents and visitors alike prevent sunburn and mitigate long-term skin damage. With a Dfc climate, Fort Nelson experiences varying UV exposure, particularly during the high summer months when indices can peak at 6 around midday. By staying informed about the UV Index, you can enjoy the beautiful outdoors safely while minimizing health risks associated with overexposure to ultraviolet rays.
As the sun rises, the UV Index begins to climb, starting at a gentle 1 at 07:00. By 08:00, it reaches 2, signaling the need for some sun protection. The intensity continues to build throughout the morning, peaking at 6 between 13:00 and 14:00—a prime time for outdoor activities, albeit with caution. As the afternoon wanes, the UV levels gracefully dip, dropping to 4 by 16:00 and returning to 1 by 19:00. It’s a reminder to stay sun-smart early and take advantage of the milder UV levels as the day progresses. Enjoy the sunshine, but don’t forget that protection is key!
| 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 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 13:00 | 6 | high | 25 min |
| 14:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 15:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 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 |