Last updated: June 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents of Mattawa, Canada, where sun exposure can vary significantly throughout the day. With summer temperatures soaring in the Dfb climate zone, awareness of UV levels is vital for preventing sunburn and protecting skin health. On sunny days, the UV Index can peak at a startling 9 around noon, indicating a high risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure. Staying informed about these levels not only helps you enjoy the outdoors safely but also ensures that you make informed choices about sun protection throughout the day.
As the sun rises, the UV Index begins its ascent, starting at a gentle 1 at 07:00. By 08:00, it climbs to 2, indicating a mild increase in UV exposure. The real peak arrives at 12:00, where the index reaches a striking 9, underscoring the importance of sun protection during these hours. This high level remains steady until 14:00, followed by a gradual descent as the afternoon wanes: 8 at 15:00, 6 at 16:00, and continuing down to 2 at 18:00. As evening approaches, the UV Index drops to a soft 1 by 19:00, signaling a gentle close to the sun-soaked day. Remember to take precautions during the midday hours to safeguard your skin!
| 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 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 11:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 12:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 13:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 14:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 15:00 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
| 16:00 | 6 | high | 25 min |
| 17:00 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
| 18:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 19:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
Throughout the year, the UV Index exhibits significant seasonal variation, impacting sun exposure risk for both residents and visitors. During the winter months (January and December), the UV Index ranges from 2, indicating low risk, with a burn time of about 45 minutes. As spring approaches, UV levels increase: March sees a UV Index of 5 (moderate risk), rising to 7 in April (high risk). The summer months, particularly May through August, represent the highest risk, with UV Index values peaking at 9 (very high risk) for several months. Burn times shorten dramatically to just 15 minutes in these peak months. In September, the UV Index drops to 7, and by October and November, it returns to moderate levels. It is crucial for visitors and residents to stay informed about these changes, particularly from April to August, when precautions such as applying sunscreen, seeking shade, and wearing protective clothing are strongly advised to reduce the risk of skin damage.
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 |
| Calgary UVI | 2 | 3 | 4 | 6 | 8 | 8 | 9 | 8 | 7 | 4 | 2 | 1 |
| Mattawa | 2 | 3 | 5 | 7 | 9 | 9 | 9 | 8 | 7 | 5 | 3 | 2 |
| 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 |