Last updated: May 3, 2025
In Iqaluit, Canada, being aware of the UV Index is crucial for protecting your skin from the sun's harmful rays. With the extreme Arctic climate and long daylight hours, understanding UV levels helps prevent sunburn and promotes overall skin health. During peak hours, particularly between 11:00 AM and 1:00 PM when the UV Index can reach as high as 6, it’s vital to take precautions. By staying informed about the daily UV exposure risks, residents and visitors alike can enjoy the beautiful outdoors without compromising their well-being.
As the sun rises, the UV Index gradually climbs, starting at a mild 2 at 7:00 AM and reaching a friendly 3 by 8:00 AM. By 9:00 AM, it's hitting a moderate 4, making it a great time for outdoor activities. The peak intensity occurs between 10:00 AM and 1:00 PM, soaring to 6 as the sun reaches its zenith. Thankfully, the UV Index begins to taper off after 2:00 PM, dropping to 5 at 3:00 PM and continuing down to 2 by 6:00 PM. As daylight fades, the UV risk significantly decreases, leaving a gentle 1 at 7:00 PM—perfect for evening strolls! Stay protected during those peak hours, and enjoy the warm sunshine safely!
| Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 08:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 09:00 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
| 10:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 11:00 | 6 | high | 25 min |
| 12:00 | 6 | high | 25 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 | 1 | low | 45 min |
The UV Index experiences significant seasonal changes, peaking in the warmer months. From January to February, the index remains low (1), with a burn time of 45 minutes, indicating minimal risk of harm from sun exposure. As March approaches, the index rises to 3 (moderate), with a reduced burn time of 30 minutes. The UV Index peaks in May and June at 6 (high), marking the highest risk months where burn time decreases to just 25 minutes. In July and August, the index slightly declines but remains in the moderate category (5 and 4), giving a burn time of 30 minutes. As fall sets in, the index decreases again to 3 in September and further to 2 in October, returning to a low level by November and December (1). Visitors and residents should remain particularly cautious from May to July, ensuring to take protective measures like wearing sunscreen and seeking shade during peak sun hours to avoid skin damage.
UV Risk Categories
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Iqaluit | 1 | 1 | 3 | 5 | 6 | 6 | 5 | 4 | 3 | 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 |