Last updated: June 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors of Penticton, Canada, a region renowned for its sunny climate and outdoor activities. As UV levels can spike significantly during the day, especially between 11:00 AM and 1:00 PM, awareness of these fluctuations helps in preventing sunburn and preserving skin health. With Penticton's climate characterized by its warm summers and clear skies, individuals must remain vigilant against the potential risks of prolonged sun exposure. Stay informed and protect your skin to enjoy all that this beautiful city has to offer!
The UV Index reveals a dynamic day of sun exposure, starting with a gentle 1 at 07:00 and gradually ramping up as the morning unfolds. By 09:00, it climbs to 4, reaching a more noteworthy 6 at 10:00. As the sun reaches its zenith, the UV Index peaks at 9 during the crucial hours of 12:00 and 13:00, indicating a high risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure. The intensity begins to wane after 14:00, settling to 7 at 15:00 before gradually decreasing to 1 by 19:00. Remember to protect your skin between 11:00 and 14:00 when the sun’s rays are at their most dangerous!
| Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 08:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 09:00 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
| 10:00 | 6 | high | 25 min |
| 11:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 12:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 13:00 | 9 | 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 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 18:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 19:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
Throughout the year, UV exposure fluctuates significantly, with high-risk months primarily from April to August. In April, the UV Index reaches a high level of 7, marking the beginning of increased skin exposure risk, which intensifies into the very high category of 8 and 9 during May, June, and July. Visitors and residents should take precautions particularly between April and August, where a burn can occur in as little as 15 minutes during the peak months. As summer fades into early fall, the UV Index decreases, returning to a moderate level by October and then to low levels in November and December. It's essential for everyone to practice sun safety by using sunscreen, wearing protective clothing, and seeking shade during peak hours, especially in the high-risk periods.
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 |
| Penticton | 2 | 3 | 5 | 7 | 8 | 9 | 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 |