Last updated: July 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index in Surrey, Canada is essential for protecting your skin and promoting overall health. With the region's Csb climate characterized by mild summers and varying sun exposure, knowing the UV levels can help you prevent sunburn and reduce the risk of long-term skin damage. During peak hours, especially between 11 AM and 3 PM when the UV Index can reach as high as 9, being aware of these levels empowers you to take necessary precautions. This knowledge is crucial for enjoying the outdoors safely while safeguarding your skin from harmful ultraviolet rays.
The UV Index data reveals a dynamic daily pattern of sun exposure. Starting gently at 1 at 7:00 AM, it gradually climbs, reaching 3 by 9:00 AM. The intensity peaks at 9 around 1:00 PM, signaling the highest risk for UV-related harm. As the afternoon progresses, the index dips, falling back to 5 by 4:00 PM, and dropping to 1 again by 7:00 PM. With such fluctuations, it’s essential to protect your skin during the peak hours of 11:00 AM to 2:00 PM when the UV Index hits 7 and above. Always remember, even on mild days, sunscreen and protective clothing are your best allies!
| 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 | 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 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
| 18:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 19:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
Throughout the year, UV levels vary significantly, with the most intense exposure occurring during the summer months. May through August are particularly high-risk months, showcasing UV Index values reaching up to 9 in July. During this period, the burn time decreases to just 15 minutes, indicating a need for heightened sun safety precautions. In contrast, the winter months of January, November, and December present low UV levels (UV Index 1-2), allowing for longer exposure times of up to 45 minutes without immediate risk of sunburn. Visitors and residents should take extra care from April to August by wearing protective clothing, using sunscreen, and seeking shade during peak sunlight 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 |
| Surrey | 2 | 3 | 4 | 6 | 7 | 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 |