Last updated: June 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents of Carleton-sur-Mer, Canada, where the picturesque climate of a Dfb zone can pose significant sun exposure risks. Daily awareness of UV levels is essential not only to prevent painful sunburns but also to maintain long-term skin health. With peak UV readings reaching as high as 9 around midday, it's vital to take precautions during the warmer months. Be proactive in safeguarding your skin as you enjoy the stunning coastal scenery and outdoor activities that Carleton-sur-Mer has to offer!
Throughout the day, the UV Index fluctuates dramatically, peaking during the midday hours. Starting at a low of 1 at 07:00, the index rises steadily, reaching 3 by 09:00. As 10:00 approaches, it escalates to 5, but the real intensity hits between 12:00 and 14:00 when it peaks at 9. During this window, it's crucial to take sun safety precautions. As the afternoon progresses, the UV levels begin to taper off, dropping to 8 at 15:00 and gradually declining further to 3 by 18:00. Finally, the UV Index returns to its morning low of 1 by 19:00, marking a safe end to sun exposure for the day.
| 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 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 19:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
Throughout the year, UV index levels fluctuate significantly, indicating the varying risks of skin damage from sun exposure. From January to February, the UV index remains low to moderate, with burn times increasing from 45 minutes to 30 minutes. As spring arrives in March, the UV index climbs to 5, necessitating awareness, as burn times drop to 30 minutes. April marks the transition into high-risk territory with a UV index of 7 and a burn time of just 25 minutes. The peak of UV exposure occurs in the summer months of May through August, where the index reaches a maximum of 9 in June—signifying very high risk—with a minimal burn time of just 15 minutes. September sees a decline to a high index of 6 before dropping to moderate levels in October. The year concludes with low UV exposure in November and December, where burn times extend back to 45 minutes. Visitors and residents are advised to take extra precautions during high-risk months from April to August, such as wearing protective clothing, applying sunscreen regularly, and seeking shade to minimize 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 |
| Carleton-sur-Mer | 2 | 3 | 5 | 7 | 8 | 9 | 8 | 8 | 6 | 4 | 2 | 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 |