Last updated: August 1, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents of Selkirk, Canada, where varying levels of UV radiation can significantly impact skin health. With a climate characterized as Dfb, Selkirk experiences intense daylight hours, particularly from late morning to early afternoon when UV levels peak. Being aware of these levels not only helps in preventing painful sunburns but also promotes long-term skin health. During the summer months, the UV Index can reach as high as 8, indicating a need for protective measures to safeguard against the harmful effects of excessive sun exposure. Stay informed and protect your skin while enjoying the beautiful Canadian outdoors!
As the sun rises, the UV Index begins at a modest 1 at 07:00, gradually climbing as the morning progresses. By 09:00, it increases to 3, signaling a gentle reminder to enjoy the outdoors with care. The intensity peaks at 12:00, reaching a striking 7, followed closely by a high of 8 between 13:00 and 14:00. This period marks the height of the solar exposure; it's advisable to wear sunscreen and seek shade if necessary. As the afternoon wanes, the index begins its descent, dropping to 4 by 17:00 and further declining to 1 by 19:00, making for a more comfortable end to the day. Keep this data in mind for planning your outdoor activities!
| 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 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 18:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 19:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
Throughout the year, UV Index levels exhibit significant seasonal changes that affect sun safety for both residents and visitors. The highest risk months are typically from June to August, when UV Index values peak at 9 in June and remain at 8 in July and August, categorizing these months as having very high exposure risk with a burn time of just 15 minutes. Conversely, January, November, and December feature low UV levels (UV Index 1-2), granting a longer burn time of 45 minutes. As the season transitions into spring, UV levels increase from moderate in February and March to high from April and May, where a burn time drops to 25 minutes. Visitors and residents are advised to take protective measures during high-risk months, including wearing sunscreen, protective clothing, and seeking shade to minimize the risk of sunburn and long-term 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 |
| Calgary UVI | 2 | 3 | 4 | 6 | 8 | 8 | 9 | 8 | 7 | 4 | 2 | 1 |
| Selkirk | 2 | 4 | 4 | 6 | 7 | 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 |