Last updated: May 3, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is essential for residents of Tsawwassen, Canada, where sunny days can lead to elevated UV exposure risks. With a climate classified as Csb, the region experiences moderate sun intensity, but knowing the UV levels is crucial for sunburn prevention and overall skin health. During peak hours, particularly between 11 AM and 2 PM, the UV Index can reach as high as 8, indicating a heightened risk of harm for unprotected skin. By staying informed about UV levels, you can enjoy the outdoors while safeguarding your skin against damaging effects.
The UV Index throughout the day showcases a dynamic range of solar intensity. At 07:00, it starts off gently at 1, perfect for early risers. As the sun climbs higher, the index rises to 2 by 08:00 and hits 3 by 09:00, indicating a gradual increase in UV exposure. The peak arrives at 13:00 with an impressive 8, urging outdoor enthusiasts to take precautionary measures. Following this, the intensity begins to recede, dropping to 6 by 15:00, and decreasing to 5 by 16:00. As dusk descends, the UV Index cools down to 2 at 18:00, finally settling back at 1 by 19:00. It’s a vivid reminder of how the sun's strength can fluctuate dramatically throughout the day!
| 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 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 15:00 | 6 | 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 |
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 |
| Tsawwassen | 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 |