Last updated: July 2, 2025
In Tofino, Canada, understanding the UV Index is crucial for both locals and visitors looking to enjoy the stunning coastal landscapes while safeguarding their skin health. The UV Index provides essential information on the sun's intensity, helping to prevent sunburn and reduce long-term skin damage. With Tofino's mild Cfb climate, even moderate UV levels can pose risks, especially during midday hours when readings can reach as high as 9. By staying informed about the UV Index, you can make informed decisions to enjoy the sun safely, ensuring your adventures in this beautiful region are both enjoyable and skin-smart!
From dawn to dusk, the UV Index steadily climbed, beginning at a gentle 1 at 07:00 and peaking at a robust 9 by 13:00. As the sun reached its zenith, the intensity of ultraviolet radiation surged, marking 12:00 with an impressive 8 and 13:00 with a near-maximal 9. The intensity gradually waned in the afternoon, dropping to 7 at 15:00, before tapering off to 4 by 17:00 and cooling to a soft 1 by 19:00. Stay protected during those peak hours to enjoy the sunshine safely!
| 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 | 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 | 6 | high | 25 min |
| 17:00 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
| 18:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 19:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
Throughout the year, the UV Index experiences notable fluctuations, indicating varying levels of sun exposure risk. High-risk months typically occur from April to August, with the UV Index reaching a peak of 9 in July. During these months, outdoor enthusiasts should exercise caution, as the burn time reduces to as little as 15 minutes under the sun. In contrast, the winter months of January, November, and December pose a lower risk, characterized by a UV Index of 2 or lower, allowing for longer exposure times of up to 45 minutes without significant risk. Visitors and residents are advised to check the UV Index daily, particularly during the high-risk months, and to take protective measures such as wearing sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses to ensure safe sun exposure.
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 |
| Tofino | 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 |