UV Index in Merritt, Canada

Last updated: July 2, 2025

Understanding the UV Index in Merritt, Canada, is crucial for protecting your skin and overall health. With the region's Dfc climate – characterized by warm summers and cold winters – residents and visitors alike should be aware of the potential for harmful ultraviolet radiation. UV levels can peak dramatically, reaching a maximum of 9 during midday hours, meaning even brief exposure can lead to painful sunburns and long-term skin damage. By keeping an eye on the UV Index, you can take proactive steps to safeguard your skin and enjoy Merritt’s beautiful outdoors safely.

Hourly UV Index in Merritt

As the sun rises, the UV Index begins its climb, starting at a gentle 1 at 7:00 AM. By 8:00 AM, it nudges up to 2, indicating that sun protection becomes a consideration. The intensity picks up significantly by 10:00 AM, reaching 5, before peaking at 12:00 PM with a striking 9. Notably, this peak persists through 1:00 PM to 3:00 PM, where the UVI remains steady, encouraging outdoor enthusiasts to seek shade and apply sunscreen. As the day winds down, the index gradually declines—dropping to 4 by 5:00 PM and trailing off to 1 by 7:00 PM. This hourly data not only highlights the importance of sun safety during the midday hours but also serves as a reminder to plan activities accordingly!

Average solar exposure data for the current time of the year. Actual values may vary and depend on many factors, such as cloud cover, vegetation cover, surface type, etc.
TimeUVICategoryTime to Burn
07:001low45 min
08:002low45 min
09:003moderate30 min
10:005moderate30 min
11:007high25 min
12:009very high15 min
13:009very high15 min
14:009very high15 min
15:007high25 min
16:005moderate30 min
17:004moderate30 min
18:002low45 min
19:001low45 min

Monthly UV Index Trends in Merritt

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.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Merritt, Canada

The monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) represents the highest UV radiation level recorded each month in Merritt. It measures the strength of ultraviolet radiation from the sun and helps assess the risk of sunburn and UV-related health issues.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec235689987421
Data source: Statistical UV Index data for Merritt, based on information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

UV Risk Categories

  •  Extreme (11+): Avoid the sun, stay in shade.
  •  Very High (8-10): Limit sun exposure.
  •  High (6-7): Use SPF 30+ and protective clothing.
  •  Moderate (3-5): Midday shade recommended.
  •  Low (0-2): No protection needed.

Compare Merritt UV Index with Other Canada Cities

The table above highlights how UV exposure in Merritt compares to other major locations across Canada. This comparison helps travelers and residents better understand regional sun intensity and plan outdoor activities with sun safety in mind.
Merritt's solar exposure compared to other cities in Canada. Generated using Copernicus Atmosphere Monitoring Service information.
 JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Edmonton UVI235677876421
Calgary UVI234688987421
Merritt235689987421
Montreal UVI245799887532
Ottawa UVI245899887532
Toronto UVI245899997532