Last updated: May 3, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents of Hay River, Canada, especially given the climate's unique characteristics. With a Dfc climate, the region experiences significant seasonal variations, and sun exposure can vary dramatically throughout the year. Knowledge of UV levels not only helps in preventing painful sunburns but also promotes overall skin health, reducing the risk of long-term damage. During peak hours, particularly between noon and 2 PM, the UV Index can reach levels as high as 6, which indicates a moderate risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure. Staying informed about UV levels allows you to enjoy the beautiful Canadian outdoors while protecting yourself effectively!
As the sun rises, the UV Index begins its ascent, starting at a gentle 1 at 7:00 AM. By 10:00 AM, it climbs to a moderate 3, indicating it's time to take some precautions. The peak intensity occurs at 1:00 PM with a robust 6, urging everyone to seek shade and wear sunscreen. As the afternoon progresses, the index gradually decreases, dipping to a 4 by 4:00 PM and trailing off to 2 by 6:00 PM. This hourly journey underscores the importance of sun safety during peak hours. Embrace the warmth, but always stay protected!
| 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 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 16:00 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
| 17:00 | 3 | 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 |