Last updated: May 3, 2025
In Hearst, Canada, being aware of the UV Index is crucial for maintaining skin health and preventing sunburn, especially during the warmer months when solar radiation peaks. Understanding UV levels helps residents and visitors take proactive measures to protect themselves from harmful effects, such as premature aging and skin cancer. With Hearst's Dfc climate zone, characterized by distinct seasons, the risk of high UV exposure can vary significantly, making it essential to stay informed. Whether you're enjoying outdoor activities in summer or hitting the slopes in winter, knowing when the UV Index is high—peaking at 8 around midday—can help you enjoy the sun safely.
The UV Index for today provides a clear picture of sun exposure, peaking dramatically through the midday hours. Starting the day gently at a low of 1 at 07:00 and 08:00, the intensity begins to rise, reaching 3 by 09:00. As the sun climbs higher, the index hits 4 at 10:00, escalating to its maximum of 8 at 13:00. This critical peak emphasizes the need for sun protection, as conditions remain notably high at 7 for both 14:00 and 15:00. The UV levels then gradually decline, dropping to 5 by 16:00 and tapering off to 1 by 19:00. It's essential to stay vigilant and shield your skin during those midday hours, where the sun's impact is most intense!
| Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 08:00 | 1 | 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 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
| 14:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 15:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 16:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 17:00 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
| 18:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 19:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
During the year, the UV Index exhibits significant seasonal changes, highlighting varying levels of sun exposure risk. From January through March, UV levels are relatively low to moderate, with burn times extending from 30 to 45 minutes. However, the risk escalates dramatically in April and peaks during the summer months of May to July, which record a UV Index of 8 and a very high exposure category, resulting in a rapid burn time of just 15 minutes. As the year transitions into August and September, the UV levels remain high, though slightly reduced, necessitating a burn time of 25 minutes. By October, the exposure returns to moderate levels, followed by a drop to low risk in November and December. Visitors and residents should take precautions, especially during the high-risk months of April to September, by wearing sunscreen, protective clothing, and seeking shade during peak hours to mitigate the risk of harmful 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 |
| Hearst | 2 | 3 | 4 | 7 | 8 | 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 |