Last updated: June 2, 2025
In Aklavik, Canada, awareness of the UV Index is essential for residents and visitors alike, as it plays a crucial role in protecting against harmful sun exposure. Understanding UV levels can significantly aid in preventing sunburn and maintaining skin health, especially during peak hours when the index rises. Aklavik's Dfc climate brings long daylight hours in summer, which can lead to elevated UV exposure risks. With the UV Index reaching up to 5 in the afternoon, being informed can help you enjoy the sun safely while safeguarding your skin.
The UV Index today offers a fascinating progression throughout the day, starting at a mild level of 1 during the early morning hours (07:00 to 09:00). As the sun climbs higher, it peaks at 4 from 12:00 to 13:00, indicating a moderate level of sun exposure. The intensity ramps up to a heightened level of 5 between 14:00 and 16:00, urging caution for those venturing outdoors. As the afternoon wanes, the UV Index dips back down to 3 by 18:00 and 19:00. This data underscores the importance of sun safety from midday onwards, particularly during the peak hours when protection is most crucial.
| Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 08:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 09:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 10:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 11:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 12:00 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
| 13:00 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
| 14:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 15:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 16:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 17:00 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
| 18:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 19:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
The seasonal UV changes indicate that UV exposure is generally low during the winter months (January through March), with an index of 1 and a burn time of 45 minutes. As spring arrives, the UV Index begins to rise, reaching moderate levels (3 to 5) from April through August, with the highest risk months in June and July, where the index peaks at 5 and the burn time shortens to 30 minutes. September sees a slight decline, but the index remains moderate. By late fall and winter (October through December), UV levels drop back to low, allowing for safer sun exposure with a burn time of 45 minutes. Visitors and residents are advised to be especially cautious during the summer months when UV exposure is most intense; sunscreen, protective clothing, and limiting time in direct sunlight are highly recommended to mitigate the risks of sunburn and skin damage.
UV Risk Categories
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Aklavik | 1 | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 5 | 4 | 3 | 1 | 1 | 0 |
| 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 |