Last updated: May 3, 2025
In Golden, Canada, understanding the UV Index is crucial for safeguarding your skin while enjoying the great outdoors. The UV Index indicates the strength of solar UV radiation and helps you determine the right precautions to take against sunburn and long-term skin damage. With its Dfb climate, Golden experiences varying UV levels throughout the day, peaking at 7 between noon and 2 PM. As you explore the beautiful landscapes, being aware of these UV levels ensures you can protect yourself effectively and relish every moment under the sun. Stay informed, stay safe!
As the sun rises, the UV Index (UVI) begins its ascent, starting with a mild level of 1 at 7:00 AM. By 9:00 AM, it reaches a level 3, indicating an increase in solar intensity. The real peak occurs at noon when the UVI hits a robust 7, representing the highest risk for harm from unprotected sun exposure. This high intensity persists until 3:00 PM, when it gradually recedes to a level of 6. As the afternoon wanes, the UVI dips further, dropping to 5 at 4 PM and finally back to a gentle 1 by 7 PM, allowing for a safe and comfortable evening. Remember, the hours between 10 AM and 3 PM mark the most crucial times for sun safety!
| Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 08:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 09:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 10:00 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
| 11:00 | 6 | high | 25 min |
| 12:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 13:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 14:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 15:00 | 6 | high | 25 min |
| 16:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 17:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 18:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 19:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
Throughout the year, UV Index values exhibit a distinct seasonal pattern, with significant increases during the warmer months. January and December experience low UV levels (Index 1-2) with a burn time of 45 minutes, making sun protection less critical. As we enter February and March, the UV Index rises to moderate levels (3-5), and exposure times decrease to 30 minutes. The most critical months for UV exposure are April to August, where the UV Index peaks at 8, indicating very high risk, with burn times reduced to just 15 minutes in June and July. August sees a slight decline to high levels (Index 7) but still requires vigilance. September and October return to moderate to high levels (Index 4-6) with burn times of 25-30 minutes. Residents and visitors are advised to take appropriate precautions, especially during April through August, by wearing sunscreen, protective clothing, and sunglasses to minimize skin damage and health risks associated with high UV exposure.
UV Risk Categories
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Edmonton UVI | 2 | 3 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 7 | 8 | 7 | 6 | 4 | 2 | 1 |
| Golden | 2 | 3 | 5 | 7 | 7 | 8 | 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 |