Last updated: June 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors of Kitimat, Canada, to safeguard their skin health and prevent sunburn. With a Dfb climate that includes long summer days and varying seasonal exposure, being aware of UV levels can help you make informed decisions about outdoor activities. During peak hours, especially from 12:00 PM to 2:00 PM, the UV Index in Kitimat can reach as high as 8, signaling a high risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure. By staying vigilant about these UV levels, you can enjoy the beautiful surroundings while protecting your skin from the sun's harmful rays.
The UV Index today paints a clear picture of intensity as the sun rises. Starting at a mild 1 by 07:00, the day gradually heats up, reaching 2 at 08:00. As the clock strikes 09:00, we see the UV Index climb to 3, paving the way for the peak hours: by 12:00, it has soared to 7, hitting 8 at both 13:00 and 14:00—the day’s zenith. After this fiery stretch, the values begin to cool, dropping to 7 by 15:00, and tapering off to 5 at 16:00. As evening approaches, the UV Index gently declines, resting back to 2 by 18:00 and 19:00. It’s a day that urges caution under the sun, especially during those midday peaks!
| 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 | 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 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 17:00 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
| 18:00 | 2 | low | 45 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 |