Last updated: May 3, 2025
In Golden, Canada, awareness of the UV Index is vital for protecting your skin and maintaining your overall health. Understanding UV levels not only helps prevent sunburn but is also crucial for reducing the risk of long-term skin damage. With its Dfc climate, Golden experiences a range of UV exposure risks, particularly during the peak daylight hours when UV Index readings can soar to 9, indicating a higher potential for harm. Staying informed about these levels empowers residents and visitors alike to enjoy the great outdoors while minimizing their risk of sun-related health issues.
The UV Index for the day presents a fascinating snapshot of solar intensity. Starting off gently at 1 during the early hours of 7:00 and 8:00, the sun gradually gains strength, peaking at a robust 9 between 13:00 and 14:00. This period marks the day's highest UV exposure, making it crucial for sun protection. Notably, the intensity begins to taper off after 15:00, descending to 3 by 18:00, and finally closing the day at 2 by 19:00. It's a clear reminder of the day's rhythm: with the sun rising high, the midday hours demand caution, while the early mornings and evenings offer a more gentle embrace of sunlight.
| 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 | 6 | high | 25 min |
| 12:00 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
| 13:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 14:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 15:00 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
| 16:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 17:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 18:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 19:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
As the seasons progress, the UV Index reflects significant changes in sun exposure, with noteworthy implications for both visitors and residents. The high-risk months for UV exposure are May through August, when the UV Index consistently reaches levels of 9 (very high), resulting in a burn time of just 15 minutes. Starting in April, with a UV Index of 7, precautions become increasingly vital. In the early months of the year, from January to March, the UV Index remains relatively low to moderate, with burn times increasing to 45 minutes in January. To ensure safety, it's crucial to apply sunscreen, wear protective clothing, and seek shade during midday hours, particularly during the peak summer months when UV exposure poses the greatest risk.
UV Risk Categories
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 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 |
| Golden | 2 | 3 | 5 | 7 | 9 | 9 | 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 |