Last updated: June 2, 2025
In Shilo, Canada, staying informed about the UV Index is vital for maintaining skin health and preventing sunburn. Understanding UV levels helps residents protect themselves during peak exposure times, particularly in a Dfb climate where long, sunny days can lead to increased UV radiation. With summer afternoons reaching a high of 9 on the UV Index, it’s essential to be proactive about sun safety, ensuring that everyone can enjoy the outdoors while minimizing the risks associated with UV exposure.
The UV Index throughout the day rises and falls dramatically, reflecting the sun's intensity. Starting the morning at a gentle 1 at both 07:00 and 08:00, the intensity gradually increases to 3 by 09:00. As the day progresses, the UV levels surge, peaking at a strong 9 between 13:00 and 14:00—a time when sun protection is crucial. Following this peak, the index gradually declines, settling at 6 by 16:00 and diminishing further to a safer 2 by 19:00. This data underlines the importance of seeking shade and applying sunscreen during those midday hours when UV exposure is at its highest.
| Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 08:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 09:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 10:00 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
| 11:00 | 6 | high | 25 min |
| 12:00 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
| 13:00 | 9 | 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 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 18:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 19:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
Throughout the year, the UV Index exhibits notable seasonal changes, with peak levels occurring from April to September. During these months, particularly in May, June, July, and August, the UV Index reaches very high levels (8-9), indicating a significant risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure. Notably, April also marks the beginning of the high-risk season with a UV Index of 7. Visitors and residents are advised to take precautions during these high-risk months by wearing sunscreen, protective clothing, and sunglasses, while also seeking shade during peak sun hours. The winter months (January, November, December) present a much lower risk, with UV Index levels typically in the low category (1-2), allowing for more relaxed sun safety measures.
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 |
| Shilo | 2 | 4 | 5 | 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 |