Last updated: July 2, 2025
In Vanderhoof, Canada, being aware of the UV Index is crucial for safeguarding your skin from harmful sun exposure. Understanding UV levels helps residents and visitors alike take proactive measures against sunburn and long-term skin damage. With a Dfc climate that can see high UV readings, particularly between 11 AM and 3 PM when the index peaks at 8, awareness is key to enjoying the sunny days safely. Make informed choices to protect yourself under the brilliant northern skies!
The UV Index throughout the day reveals a clear peak in sun intensity, providing a vivid illustration of solar exposure. Starting at 07:00, the index is a mild 1, indicating minimal risk. As the sun climbs higher, it rises to 3 by 09:00 and hits 6 at 11:00, urging early protectors to apply their sunscreen. The intensity reaches its zenith at 12:00, with a robust 7, and maintains 8 between 13:00 and 14:00, suggesting it's crucial to seek shade or cover during these hours. As the afternoon progresses, the figures gently decline, dipping to 4 at 17:00 and finally returning to a low 1 by 19:00. This hourly dance of the UV Index serves as a reminder to be sun-smart and make the most of outdoor activities while remaining vigilant during peak hours.
| 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 | 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, the UV Index reflects notable seasonal changes in sun exposure, peaking during the summer months. January and February see low UV levels (Index 1-2), allowing for extended safe exposure times of 45 minutes. As spring approaches, the index rises to moderate levels (Index 4-5) in March and April, reducing burn times to 30 minutes. The risk escalates in May and June with a high UV Index of 7, leading to a burn time of just 25 minutes. The very high UV levels (Index 8) in July and August necessitate caution, as skin can burn in as little as 15 minutes. As fall sets in, the index drops to high (Index 6) in September, before returning to moderate (Index 4) in October, allowing for a burn time of 30 minutes. The year ends with low UV exposure in November and December, permitting safe exposure for 45 minutes. Visitors and residents are advised to take extra precautions during July and August with appropriate sun protection measures, including sunscreen, protective clothing, and seeking shade during peak hours, to minimize risk of sunburn and long-term skin damage.
UV Risk Categories
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Vanderhoof | 1 | 2 | 4 | 5 | 7 | 7 | 8 | 8 | 6 | 4 | 1 | 1 |
| 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 |
| 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 |