Last updated: June 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors of St. George, Canada, a place where the climate often fluctuates between the beauty of sunny skies and the risks that come with increased UV exposure. As summer approaches, being mindful of UV levels is vital for preventing sunburn and protecting skin health, particularly during those peak hours when UV radiation soars—reaching a maximum of 10 between 1:00 PM and 2:00 PM. With St. George's continental climate regularly offering bright days, the potential for UV-related health issues heightens. Stay informed and take the necessary precautions to enjoy the sunshine safely!
As the sun rises, the UV Index gradually climbs, beginning at a mild 1 at 7:00 AM. By 9:00 AM, it reaches 3, prompting early risers to consider sun protection. The intensity peaks at 1:00 PM with a maximum of 10, signaling the most hazardous conditions for unprotected skin. As the afternoon unfolds, the index dips from 9 at 2:00 PM to 6 by 4:00 PM, offering a brief respite. As the day winds down, the UV rays decrease, falling to 2 by 6:00 PM and returning to a safe 1 by 7:00 PM. Stay mindful of these fluctuations to enjoy the sun while safeguarding 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 | 10 | 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 shows significant seasonal variations that influence sun exposure risks for both visitors and residents. From January to March, the index starts low at 2 but rises to 5 by March, indicating moderate exposure risks with burn times decreasing from 45 minutes to 30 minutes. The spring and summer months, particularly April to August, present the highest risks, with UV Index values soaring to 9 and 10 during the peak months of May and June. Here, the burn time drops dramatically to just 15 minutes, categorizing these months as very high risk. September sees a slight decrease to 7 (high exposure) while October and November return to moderate levels with indices of 5 and 4. As winter arrives in December, the UV Index falls to 2, marking a return to low exposure risks. It's crucial for everyone to be aware of these fluctuations: during high-risk months, especially from April to August, it is advisable to limit sun exposure, wear protective clothing, and apply sunscreen regularly to prevent 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 |
| 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 |
| St. George | 2 | 4 | 5 | 8 | 9 | 10 | 9 | 9 | 7 | 5 | 4 | 2 |