Last updated: June 2, 2025
In North Vancouver, Canada, being aware of the UV Index is crucial for protecting your skin and maintaining overall health. Understanding UV levels helps you take proactive steps to prevent sunburn and reduce the risk of long-term skin damage. With a Cfb climate that features overcast skies and chilly temperatures for much of the year, many are surprised to learn that UV exposure can still be significant, especially during the peak hours of 11 AM to 3 PM when the index can soar to 8. Stay informed and take care of your skin, because even in a cooler climate, those UV rays can be deceptively strong!
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 |
The UV Index experiences notable seasonal fluctuations throughout the year, indicating varying sun exposure levels. January begins with a low UV Index of 2, allowing for a burn time of 45 minutes. As spring approaches, February and March see moderate levels, with indices of 3 and 4 respectively, resulting in burn times of 30 minutes. However, April marks the start of high UV exposure with an index of 6 and continues into the summer months, peaking in July at 9—the most high-risk month—where only 15 minutes of unprotected sun exposure is safe. August remains very high, while September tapers to a high index of 6. By October, the UV Index dips back to 4, gradually returning to low levels by November and December, where residents and visitors can safely enjoy 45 minutes of sun without concern. Visitors and residents should take precautions, especially during May through August, utilizing sunscreen, protective clothing, and seeking shade during peak hours to minimize 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 |
| North Vancouver | 2 | 3 | 4 | 6 | 8 | 8 | 9 | 8 | 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 |