Last updated: June 2, 2025
In Behchoko, Canada, understanding the UV Index is crucial for protecting your skin and maintaining overall health. With peaks reaching a UV level of 6 during the sunniest hours, awareness of UV exposure can significantly aid in preventing sunburn and reducing long-term skin damage. Given Behchoko's Dfc climate, characterized by cool summers, the risk of UV-related harm still exists, particularly during the brightest hours. Stay informed and take essential precautions to enjoy the outdoors safely while embracing the beauty of your surroundings!
As the day unfolds, the UV Index (UVI) rises to a peak of 6 around 2 PM, indicating the strongest potential for sunburn and the need for sun protection. Beginning at 7 AM, the UVI is a manageable 1, gradually increasing to 2 by 9 AM before climbing to 4 at 11 AM. Between noon and 1 PM, it reaches 5, signaling that the sun is becoming notably more intense. From 2 PM to 3 PM, bask in the sun's brilliance, but take care as the levels drop only slightly thereafter, maintaining a 4 at 4 PM and gradually declining to 2 by 7 PM. Overall, it’s a reminder to enjoy the sunshine while staying safe!
| 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 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 11:00 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
| 12:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 13:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 14:00 | 6 | high | 25 min |
| 15:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 16:00 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
| 17:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 18:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 19:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
Seasonal variations in UV Index indicate a notable increase from the low levels in January and February (UV Index 1) to more hazardous levels in June and July (UV Index 6), where the burn time decreases to just 25 minutes. The UV Index reaches moderate levels in March through May (UV Index 3-5) and dips back to low levels from October to December. The high-risk months for UV exposure are clearly June and July, when direct sunlight can cause skin damage within 25 minutes. Residents and visitors should take precautions during these months by wearing protective clothing, applying sunscreen, and limiting sun exposure during peak hours to reduce the risk of UV-related health issues.
UV Risk Categories
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Behchoko | 1 | 1 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 6 | 5 | 4 | 2 | 1 | 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 |