Last updated: June 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index in Iqaluit, Canada is essential for protecting your skin and overall health, especially in this northern climate where clear skies can lead to unexpected ultraviolet exposure. Being aware of UV levels helps prevent painful sunburns and long-term skin damage, making it crucial for both residents and visitors alike. Iqaluit's climate, classified as ET (tundra), may lessen sun exposure compared to more temperate regions, yet during peak hours from 11 AM to 1 PM, UV Index readings can reach as high as 6, indicating a moderate risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure. Stay informed and take necessary precautions to enjoy the beautiful Arctic sun safely!
Throughout the day, the UV Index reveals a pattern of rising and falling intensity. Starting at a mild 2 by 7:00 AM, the index steadily climbs, reaching its peak of 6 between 11:00 AM and 2:00 PM. This period signifies the highest risk for sun exposure, emphasizing the importance of sun safety measures. As the afternoon unfolds, the UV index begins to taper off, descending back to 2 by 5:00 PM, and eventually dwindling to a low 1 by 7:00 PM. With this in mind, it’s crucial to protect your skin when the sun shines brightest!
| 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 | 2 | low | 45 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 |