Last updated: July 2, 2025
In Kitimat, Canada, being aware of the UV Index is essential for protecting your skin and overall health. Understanding UV levels is crucial, especially during the sunniest hours, as it helps prevent sunburn and lowers the risk of skin-related ailments. With Kitimat’s Dfb climate, the region experiences varied UV exposure throughout the year. Notably, midday peaks can reach a UV index of 8, highlighting the importance of sun safety practices for residents and visitors alike. Stay informed to enjoy the outdoors while safeguarding your skin!
The UV Index for the day presents an interesting pattern as it steadily climbs from early morning to reach its peak at 1 PM, hitting a notable 8. Starting at a muted 1 at 7 AM and 8 AM, the intensity ramps up to 2 by 9 AM. 10 AM marks the first significant increase to 4, and by 11 AM, it rises to 6. The sun’s rays are at their most intense from 12 PM to 2 PM, where the index remains at 7 and 8, respectively. As the afternoon progresses, the UV Index begins to taper off, dropping to 6 at 4 PM, and settling down to 2 by 7 PM. This data underscores the importance of sun protection during the midday hours when UV radiation poses the greatest risk.
| Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 08:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 09:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 10:00 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
| 11:00 | 6 | high | 25 min |
| 12:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 13:00 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
| 14:00 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
| 15:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 16:00 | 6 | high | 25 min |
| 17:00 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
| 18:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 19:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
Throughout the year, the UV Index exhibits notable seasonal variations, significantly influencing sun exposure risks for both residents and visitors. From January to February, the UV Index remains low (1-2), allowing for 45 minutes of burn time without substantial risk. March and April mark a shift to moderate levels (4-5), where exposure is more sensitive, reducing burn time to 30 minutes. The risk peaks in May through July, with a very high UV Index of 8, necessitating protective measures after just 15 minutes of sun exposure. Even in August and September, when the UV Index remains high (6-7) with 25 minutes of burn time, individuals should be vigilant. As the year progresses into October through December, UV levels drop back to low, allowing for longer safe exposure times. Visitors and residents are advised to take precautions not only during the summer months but also to remain aware during the shoulder months of spring and early fall.
UV Risk Categories
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Kitimat | 1 | 2 | 4 | 5 | 8 | 8 | 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 |