Last updated: August 1, 2025
In Portage la Prairie, Canada, awareness of the UV Index is crucial for safeguarding your skin and health. With the region's Dfb climate, the warm summer months can bring elevated UV levels, peaking around midday when the risk of sunburn is highest. Understanding these levels not only helps in preventing skin damage but also empowers residents to enjoy the outdoors safely. During the hottest hours, UV Index values can soar to 8, a significant risk that underscores the importance of taking preventive measures. Stay informed and protect yourself from the sun's harmful effects while enjoying the beauty of Portage la Prairie!
As the sun rises, the UV Index begins at a mild 1 during the early hours (07:00 and 08:00), making it a safe start for morning activities. However, the intensity ramps up quickly, peaking at 8 between 13:00 and 14:00—a critical time where sun protection is essential. From 10:00 onward, the index steadily climbs to reach its midday high of 7 at 12:00, signaling the strongest UV exposure. As the day progresses, levels gradually decrease, dipping to 4 by 17:00 and returning to a safer 1 by 19:00. Stay vigilant during the peak hours for your skin’s safety!
| Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 08:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 09:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 10:00 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
| 11:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 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, UV exposure varies significantly, with marked increases during the warmer months. The highest risk months for UV radiation are from April to August, when the UV Index reaches very high levels of 7 to 9, resulting in a burn time of just 15 minutes. Visitors and residents are advised to take extra precautions during these months, including wearing protective clothing, applying broad-spectrum sunscreen, and seeking shade, especially during peak hours. In contrast, January, November, and December present low UV exposure, making outdoor activities less risky. It’s essential to stay informed and adjust sun protection measures according to the seasonal UV Index changes to ensure skin health year-round.
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 |
| Portage la Prairie | 2 | 4 | 4 | 7 | 8 | 9 | 8 | 8 | 6 | 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 |