Last updated: June 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index in Whistler, Canada is vital for safeguarding your skin and overall health, especially in this stunning mountain town known for its outdoor adventures. With UV levels soaring to 10 during peak hours, awareness is key for sunburn prevention and long-term skin health. Whistler’s Dfc climate means you can experience varying UV exposure risks, particularly during the summer months when the sun is at its strongest. Stay informed and protect yourself by tracking the UV Index, ensuring your time in the great outdoors is both enjoyable and safe!
As the sun rises, the UV Index begins its gentle ascent, peaking in the early afternoon. At 07:00, it starts at a manageable 1, allowing for a comfortable morning. By 09:00, it increases to 4, signaling the need for some sun protection. The index reaches 5 at 10:00, transitioning into the more intense hours ahead. Come 11:00, it soars to 7, and by 12:00, it hits a striking 9, where caution is crucial. The zenith is reached at 13:00, with a maximum UV Index of 10—a reminder to seek shade and wear sunscreen! As the afternoon progresses, it gradually decreases to 6 by 16:00, and continues to decline into the evening, concluding with a gentle 1 by 19:00. Enjoy the sun, but remember to protect your skin throughout its journey!
| Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 08:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 09:00 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
| 10:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 11:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 12:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 13:00 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
| 14:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 15:00 | 8 | very high | 15 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 exhibits notable seasonal changes, greatly impacting exposure risk for both residents and visitors. From January to March, the UV levels are relatively low to moderate, with safe burn times ranging from 30 to 45 minutes. As spring progresses into April, the UV index escalates to 7, marking the onset of high exposure risk. The peak months for UV exposure are May through August, where the index reaches a staggering 10 in June, necessitating protective measures due to the very high risk of skin damage, particularly with a burn time as short as 15 minutes. September offers some relief with a high index of 7, but as the year winds down, UV levels decrease significantly, falling to 2 in November and 1 in December. Visitors and residents should therefore prioritize sun protection during the high-risk months of April through August, employing sunscreen, wearing protective clothing, and seeking shade whenever possible to minimize harmful 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 |
| Whistler | 2 | 3 | 5 | 7 | 9 | 10 | 9 | 9 | 7 | 5 | 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 |