Last updated: May 3, 2025
In Gander, Canada, understanding the UV Index is essential for protecting your skin from harmful sun exposure. With peak UV levels reaching 8 during midday, it's crucial to be aware of these fluctuations throughout the day to prevent sunburn and long-term skin damage. This Dfb climate, characterized by warm summers and cold winters, offers beautiful sunny days, but also heightens the risk of UV radiation, especially in the peak hours between 11:00 AM and 1:00 PM. By staying informed about the UV Index, you can enjoy the outdoors safely while prioritizing your skin health.
The UV Index throughout the day showcases a dynamic pattern of sun exposure. Starting at 7:00 AM, the index remains low at 1, gradually climbing to 2 by 8:00 AM. As the sun rises higher, we see a significant leap, peaking at 8 between 12:00 PM and 1:00 PM. This mid-day surge, marked by a UV Index of 7 and 8, signals that it's essential to protect your skin during these hours. Thankfully, the intensity wanes as the afternoon unfolds; by 4:00 PM, it diminishes to 4, and drops to 1 by 7:00 PM, marking a return to safer levels. Remember to be sun-smart during the high UV hours for a healthy day out!
| Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 08:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 09:00 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
| 10:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 11:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 12:00 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
| 13:00 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
| 14:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 15:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 16:00 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
| 17:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 18:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 19:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
Throughout the year, the UV Index experiences notable fluctuations, indicating varying levels of sun exposure risk. The months of May through August represent the high-risk period, with UV Index levels ranging from 8 to 10, categorized as very high. During these months, the recommended burn time significantly decreases to just 15 minutes, highlighting the need for diligent sun protection, including sunscreen, protective clothing, and seeking shade. In contrast, during the low-risk months of January, November, and December, the UV Index remains at 2 or lower, allowing for a safer outdoor experience with burn times extending up to 45 minutes. Visitors and residents are advised to remain vigilant about UV exposure, particularly in the summer months, ensuring they take appropriate precautions to safeguard their skin against potential 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 |
| Gander | 2 | 3 | 5 | 6 | 8 | 10 | 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 |