Last updated: June 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is essential for residents of Port-Cartier, Canada, where the unique Dfc climate can lead to varied UV exposure throughout the day. As the sun rises, UV levels can climb quickly, peaking around midday when the risk of sunburn increases significantly. Being aware of these changes is crucial not only for preventing skin damage but also for promoting long-term skin health. With UV Index values reaching as high as 9 during the late morning hours, staying informed allows residents to take necessary precautions, ensuring that outdoor activities remain enjoyable and safe against harmful UV rays.
The UV Index data reveals a significant increase in sun exposure as the day progresses. Starting from a mild 2 at 7:00 AM, the intensity ramps up to a peak of 9 by 12:00 PM, indicating a time when protective measures are essential. The afternoon hours see a slight decline with readings of 8 at 1:00 PM and 7 at 2:00 PM, before tapering down to a more manageable 4 by 4:00 PM. As the sun begins to set, the UV Index drops to 1 by 6:00 PM, emphasizing that while morning and midday sun can be intense, there is a noticeable lull in UV exposure as evening approaches. This pattern highlights the importance of staying vigilant during peak hours, particularly between 11:00 AM and 1:00 PM.
| Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 08:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 09:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 10:00 | 6 | high | 25 min |
| 11:00 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
| 12:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 13:00 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
| 14:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 15:00 | 6 | high | 25 min |
| 16:00 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
| 17:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 18:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 19:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
The UV Index varies significantly throughout the year, indicating fluctuating levels of ultraviolet radiation exposure. During the winter months of January (UV Index 2) and February (UV Index 3), the exposure risk is relatively low to moderate, allowing for longer burn times of up to 45 minutes in January. As spring approaches in March (UV Index 4), the risk increases to moderate, with a burn time reduction to 30 minutes. The most high-risk months, however, are May and June, where UV levels peak at 9, categorized as very high, necessitating sun protection measures within just 15 minutes. Although July and August maintain high levels (UV Index 7), the burn time increases to 25 minutes. Fall sees a gradual decline, with September (UV Index 6) returning to high levels but extending burn time to 25 minutes, before dipping back to moderate in October (UV Index 4) with a burn time of 30 minutes, and finally to low risk in November (UV Index 2) and December (UV Index 1), where burn time reverts to 45 minutes. Residents and visitors should remain vigilant during the high-risk months of May through September, employing effective sun protection strategies, including sunscreen, hats, and protective clothing, especially 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 |
| Port-Cartier | 2 | 3 | 4 | 7 | 9 | 9 | 7 | 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 |