Last updated: August 1, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents of Winkler, Canada, where the climate is characterized by its distinct Dfb climate zone. With typical UV exposure rising significantly during midday hours, awareness of UV levels is essential for effective sunburn prevention and maintaining long-term skin health. On sunny days, especially from 12 PM to 2 PM, UV Index values soar to a peak of 8, indicating a high risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure. By staying informed about the UV Index, Winkler locals can enjoy the outdoors while protecting their skin from potential damage.
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 |
As the seasons change, so too does the UV Index, reflecting varying levels of sun exposure risk throughout the year. From January to March, the UV Index remains relatively low to moderate, with maximum burn times of 45 minutes in January decreasing to 30 minutes by March. April marks the start of higher exposure levels with an index hitting 7, leading into the peak summer months of May through August, where the UV Index reaches its highest at 9 in June and remains at 8 in July and August, necessitating a burn time of only 15 minutes. September sees a slight decrease back to a high of 7, while October returns to a moderate level with a 4. The year wraps up with lower risk months in November and December, where the burn time extends to 45 minutes. It’s crucial for visitors and residents to take protective measures during high-risk months—particularly from April to September—by wearing sunscreen, protective clothing, and limiting sun exposure during peak hours to safeguard against harmful UV rays.
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 |
| Winkler | 2 | 4 | 4 | 7 | 8 | 9 | 8 | 8 | 7 | 4 | 2 | 2 |
| 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 |