Last updated: May 3, 2025
Understanding the UV Index in Terrace, Canada is crucial for maintaining your health and well-being under the sun. With the region's Dfc climate bringing cool summers, it's easy to underestimate UV exposure, especially when temperatures are moderate. However, during peak sunlight hours, such as between 11:00 AM and 2:00 PM, the UV Index can soar to levels 7 and 8, significantly increasing the risk of sunburn and long-term skin damage. By being aware of UV levels, you can take proactive steps to protect your skin, ensuring you enjoy outdoor activities safely while minimizing the potential for harmful effects. Stay informed, stay protected!
The UV Index throughout the day reveals a distinct pattern of increasing intensity as the sun rises. At 07:00, the index starts at a mild 1, gradually climbing to 2 by 08:00. As the day progresses, the intensity ramps up, peaking at an impressive 8 during the hours of 13:00 and 14:00—a clear indication that midday sun is at its most potent. After this height, the index begins to descend, dropping back to 6 at 16:00, and later settling at a more manageable 1 by 19:00. This hourly data clearly underscores the importance of sun protection during the midday hour for outdoor activities.
| 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 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
| 11:00 | 6 | high | 25 min |
| 12:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 13:00 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
| 14:00 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
| 15:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 16:00 | 6 | high | 25 min |
| 17:00 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
| 18:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 19:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
As the seasons change, so does the UV Index, significantly impacting sun safety for visitors and residents. From January to February, the UV Index remains low (1-2), with a safe burn time of 45 minutes. As we transition into March (UV Index 4), the exposure risk increases to moderate, shortening burn time to 30 minutes. The real intensity peaks in May, June, and July, where the UV Index reaches a very high level of 8, necessitating only 15 minutes of sun exposure before burning. April (high), August, and September (high) still pose considerable risks with burn times of 25 minutes. The later months of the year, from October to December, return to lower UV levels, allowing for longer safe exposure times of 30 to 45 minutes. Visitors and residents are advised to exercise caution, especially from April to July, by using sunscreen, wearing protective clothing, and seeking shade during peak sun hours to minimize the risk of UV-related health issues.
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 |
| Terrace | 1 | 2 | 4 | 6 | 8 | 8 | 8 | 7 | 6 | 3 | 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 |