Last updated: June 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents of Sault Ste. Marie, Canada, where the Dfb climate brings a mix of sunny summers and cold winters. As UV radiation can lead to sunburn and long-term skin damage, knowing the daily UV levels helps you protect your skin while enjoying the great outdoors. With peak UV levels reaching up to 9 during the summer months, it’s essential to be aware of these risks throughout the day, especially between 11:00 AM and 2:00 PM. Stay informed and safeguard your skin health by tracking the UV Index, ensuring that you can fully enjoy the beautiful Sault Ste. Marie summer!
As the sun rises, the UV Index gradually climbs, starting at a low of 1 by 07:00 and 08:00. The real leap begins at 09:00, where it reaches 3, escalating to 4 by 10:00. As noon approaches, the UV Index peaks at an impressive 9 from 13:00 to 14:00, making it crucial to take protective measures during those hours. Afterward, it begins to taper off, dropping to 6 by 16:00, and further declining through the late afternoon and evening, eventually falling back to 1 by 19:00. For those venturing outdoors, staying vigilant to the UV levels during the midday hours is essential for skin protection!
| 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 | 8 | 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 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 19:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
Throughout the year, the UV Index experiences notable seasonal changes, with significant increases from late winter into summer. January sees a low UV Index of 2, indicating minimal risk, while February and March rise to 4 and 5, respectively, where exposure becomes moderate. April marks the onset of high-risk periods with a UV Index of 7, peaking in May and June at 8 and 9, categorized as very high. This trend continues into July and August, where protective measures are essential due to the same high values of 9 and 8. By September, the UV Index decreases to 7, signaling a return to high risk but gradually moderating through October (5) and November (3) before dropping back to low levels in December. Visitors and residents are strongly advised to prioritize sun protection during the months of May through September, when the potential for skin damage is greatest, using protective clothing, sunscreen, and seeking shade during peak hours.
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 |
| Sault Ste. Marie | 2 | 4 | 5 | 7 | 8 | 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 |