Last updated: July 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors in Kelowna, Canada, where the bright skies and sunny days can quickly lead to harmful UV exposure. With a typical climate characterized by warm summers and cold winters, Kelowna presents unique challenges when it comes to sun safety. Awareness of UV levels not only helps in preventing sunburn but also plays a vital role in maintaining long-term skin health. During peak hours, especially between 11:00 AM and 2:00 PM, the UV Index can soar to levels as high as 9, indicating a significant risk for unprotected skin. Staying informed about these fluctuations empowers you to enjoy the outdoors safely while protecting your skin from damage.
The UV Index throughout the day reveals a fascinating spectrum of sun exposure and intensity. Starting from a mild level of 1 at 07:00, it gradually climbs, reaching 2 by 08:00. As the clock strikes 09:00, the index hits 4, marking the onset of stronger sun rays. The peak is recorded at 13:00, where the UV Index soars to a formidable 9, signaling a critical time for sun safety. After this zenith, the levels gently descend, with 8 at 14:00, followed by a steady decline to 7 at 15:00. As evening approaches, the index tumbles to 5 by 16:00, further down to 4 at 17:00, and finally returns to a comfortable 1 by 19:00. This gradual rise and fall of UV levels throughout the day highlights the importance of taking sun protection measures, especially during those peak hours!
| Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 08:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 09:00 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
| 10:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 11:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 12:00 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
| 13:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 14:00 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
| 15:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 16:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 17:00 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
| 18:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 19:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
Throughout the year, the UV Index experiences significant seasonal changes, impacting outdoor activities and skin protection needs. January and November see low UV levels (Index 2), allowing for longer exposure times of 45 minutes without risk of burning. As winter ends and spring arrives, the UV Index rises to 6 in April, marking a shift to high risk, with a burn time of just 25 minutes. The summer months of May through August reach their peak, showcasing very high levels (UVI 8-9) and a much shorter burn time of only 15 minutes. In September, the risk remains elevated at a UVI of 7, while October drops back to moderate levels (UVI 4). Residents and visitors are advised to take precautions during the high-risk months from April to September by seeking shade, wearing protective clothing, and applying sunscreen regularly to minimize UV exposure and reduce the risk of skin damage.
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 |
| Kelowna | 2 | 3 | 5 | 6 | 8 | 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 |