Last updated: May 3, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents of Bathurst, Canada, especially given its exposure to varying UV levels throughout the day. With a climate characterized as Dfb, Bathurst experiences significant UV radiation, particularly from late morning to early afternoon. Being aware of these UV levels is essential for preventing sunburn and promoting long-term skin health. As the UV Index peaks at 8 between 1 PM and 2 PM, it's vital for locals to stay informed and take necessary precautions when enjoying the outdoors to protect their skin from harmful effects.
The UV Index throughout the day reveals a clear peak in sun intensity, providing a vivid illustration of solar exposure. Starting at 07:00, the index is a mild 1, indicating minimal risk. As the sun climbs higher, it rises to 3 by 09:00 and hits 6 at 11:00, urging early protectors to apply their sunscreen. The intensity reaches its zenith at 12:00, with a robust 7, and maintains 8 between 13:00 and 14:00, suggesting it's crucial to seek shade or cover during these hours. As the afternoon progresses, the figures gently decline, dipping to 4 at 17:00 and finally returning to a low 1 by 19:00. This hourly dance of the UV Index serves as a reminder to be sun-smart and make the most of outdoor activities while remaining vigilant during peak hours.
| Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 08:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 09:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 10:00 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
| 11:00 | 6 | high | 25 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 index levels fluctuate significantly, indicating the varying risks of skin damage from sun exposure. From January to February, the UV index remains low to moderate, with burn times increasing from 45 minutes to 30 minutes. As spring arrives in March, the UV index climbs to 5, necessitating awareness, as burn times drop to 30 minutes. April marks the transition into high-risk territory with a UV index of 7 and a burn time of just 25 minutes. The peak of UV exposure occurs in the summer months of May through August, where the index reaches a maximum of 9 in June—signifying very high risk—with a minimal burn time of just 15 minutes. September sees a decline to a high index of 6 before dropping to moderate levels in October. The year concludes with low UV exposure in November and December, where burn times extend back to 45 minutes. Visitors and residents are advised to take extra precautions during high-risk months from April to August, such as wearing protective clothing, applying sunscreen regularly, and seeking shade to minimize 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 |
| Bathurst | 2 | 3 | 5 | 7 | 8 | 9 | 8 | 8 | 6 | 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 |