Last updated: June 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents of Richmond, Canada, as it serves as a vital tool for sunburn prevention and maintaining long-term skin health. With a temperate Cfb climate that enjoys significant sunshine, Richmond experiences varying UV exposure throughout the day, peaking at levels 7 to 8 between 11 AM and 2 PM. This highlights the importance of being informed about daily UV levels to protect your skin effectively and enjoy the outdoors safely. By staying aware of the UV Index, you can plan your sun exposure wisely and keep harmful effects at bay.
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 |
| Richmond | 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 |