Last updated: May 3, 2025
In Happy Valley-Goose Bay, Canada, being aware of the UV Index is crucial for protecting your skin and overall health. Understanding UV levels can help you prevent sunburn and reduce long-term skin damage, especially in a climate characterized by its distinct seasons and varying solar exposure. With peak UV Index readings reaching as high as 7 during midday hours, residents and visitors alike must stay informed about daily UV levels to enjoy outdoor activities safely while minimizing the risk of harmful effects from the sun's rays. Remember, a little awareness goes a long way in safeguarding your skin in this beautiful northern region!
As the sun climbs higher in the sky, the UV Index soars, peaking at the midday hours with a striking 7 at both 12:00 and 13:00. Early risers can enjoy the gentle light, with a moderate 1 at 07:00, gradually increasing to 2 by 08:00. By 10:00, the intensity reaches 4, marking the transition into more potent UV exposure. The sun's strength truly asserts itself from 11:00 onward, where it hits 6 and persists through the afternoon. As the day wanes, the index starts to decline, settling back to 3 by 17:00 and dropping to a soft 1 by 19:00. Remember to protect your skin during those 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 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 14:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 15:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 16:00 | 4 | 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 levels exhibit notable seasonal changes, influencing the risk of sunburn and skin damage. January and February see a low UV Index (1-2), allowing for a safe burn time of up to 45 minutes. As spring approaches, March introduces a moderate UV Index (4), reducing safe exposure to 30 minutes. The risk escalates in April and May, both featuring a high UV Index (7) and a burn time of just 25 minutes. The peak UV intensity occurs in June with a very high UV Index (8), where even a brief 15-minute exposure can be harmful. July and August maintain a high UV Index (7), again recommending 25 minutes of safe sun time. As fall arrives, September sees a drop to a moderate UV Index (5) with a burn time of 30 minutes, followed by a return to low levels in October, November, and December (UV Index 1-2, burn time of 45 minutes). Residents and visitors should remain vigilant during the highest risk months of April through August, ensuring appropriate sun protection measures are in place to minimize potential harm.
UV Risk Categories
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Happy Valley-Goose Bay | 1 | 2 | 4 | 7 | 7 | 8 | 7 | 7 | 5 | 3 | 2 | 1 |
| 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 |
| 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 |