Last updated: June 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index in Hay River, Canada, is crucial for safeguarding your skin health and preventing sunburn. As the sun rises higher in the sky, UV levels can reach significant peaks, particularly during the summer months in this Dfc climate zone, where long daylight hours can lead to increased exposure risks. With UV Index readings rising to 6 in midday hours, being aware of these levels can help you take essential precautions, ensuring you enjoy the beautiful outdoors while protecting your skin from harmful ultraviolet radiation. Stay informed and sun-safe in Hay River!
As the sun climbs in the sky, so does the UV Index, peaking during the afternoon hours. Starting at a gentle 1 at 7:00 AM, the index gradually increases, reaching 3 by 10:00 AM. The intensity continues to rise, hitting 5 at noon and reaching its maximum of 6 between 1:00 PM and 3:00 PM—a prime time to take precautions against harmful rays. As the day starts to wind down, the UV Index dips back to 4 at 5:00 PM, then falls further to 2 by evening, signaling a welcome respite. It’s a day to enjoy the outdoors while staying safe under the sun!
| Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 08:00 | 2 | 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 | 6 | high | 25 min |
| 14:00 | 6 | high | 25 min |
| 15:00 | 6 | high | 25 min |
| 16:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 17:00 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
| 18:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 19:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
The UV Index shows significant seasonal changes, with high-risk months identified as May through August, when the index consistently reaches 6, categorizing exposure as high and reducing safe burn time to 25 minutes. In contrast, the winter months of January, November, and December demonstrate a low risk with an index of 1 and a burn time of 45 minutes. Visitors and residents are advised to take extra precautions during the high UV months by wearing protective clothing, applying broad-spectrum sunscreen, and seeking shade, especially during peak sunlight hours. In the lower UV months, while the risk remains minimal, it's still advisable to practice sun safety for prolonged exposure.
UV Risk Categories
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hay River | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 6 | 6 | 6 | 6 | 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 |