Last updated: June 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents of Maple Ridge, Canada, where the temperate Cfb climate brings a mix of sunshine and cloud cover throughout the year. Awareness of UV levels is essential not only for preventing sunburn but also for safeguarding long-term skin health. During the sunniest months, UV readings can peak at 8 around midday, highlighting the importance of protection against potentially harmful exposure. With a typical risk of elevated UV levels, it's vital for the community to stay informed and take proactive measures to enjoy the beautiful outdoors safely.
As the sun rises, the UV Index begins its ascent, starting at a gentle 1 at 07:00. By 09:00, it gradually ramps up to 3, signaling the start of a moderately sunny day. The index peaks at 8 from 12:00 to 14:00, reminding everyone to take care as midday rays can be intense. Following this peak, the UV levels begin to decline sharply, dropping to 7 at 15:00 and further to 4 by 17:00. As the sun sets, the UV Index falls back to 2 at 18:00 and settles at 1 by 19:00, marking the end of the day’s solar intensity. Stay sun-safe and enjoy the rays while they last!
| 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 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 11:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 12:00 | 8 | very high | 15 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 | 1 | low | 45 min |
Throughout the year, the UV Index reflects significant seasonal changes that impact sun exposure and potential skin damage. The high-risk months are from April to August, where the UV Index peaks at 9 in July, indicating very high exposure risk with a burn time as low as 15 minutes. Visitors and residents are advised to take extra precautions during these months, including wearing protective clothing, applying broad-spectrum sunscreen, and seeking shade during peak sun hours. Meanwhile, the winter months of January and February see a drop in UV levels to 2 and 3, classified as low to moderate, allowing for more lenient sun exposure while still taking care to protect skin. As the UV Index generally decreases towards the end of the year, exposure caution can be relaxed, particularly in November and December when burn times extend back to 45 minutes.
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 |
| Maple Ridge | 2 | 3 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 9 | 8 | 6 | 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 |