Last updated: June 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents of Saint-Augustin, Canada, where exposure to harmful ultraviolet rays can pose significant risks to skin health. With the region's Dfc climate, outdoor enthusiasts and sunbathers alike must be vigilant about varying UV levels, especially during peak hours. From preventing painful sunburns to safeguarding against long-term skin damage, being aware of the UV Index helps guide safe sun practices. As the sun climbs to its peak with indices reaching up to 9 around noon, knowing when to seek shade or apply sunscreen is key to enjoying the outdoors while protecting your skin.
As the sun rises, the UV Index begins to climb, reaching a maximum of 9 between 11:00 AM and 1:00 PM—the peak time for sun exposure. Starting at a modest 2 at 7:00 AM, the index steadily ascends to 4 by 8:00 AM, hitting 6 by 9:00 AM. The day's intensity culminates at noon, remaining at that level until 1:00 PM before gradually tapering off. By 3:00 PM, it drops to 5, and after that, it continues to decline, reaching a low of 1 by 6:00 PM. For those planning outdoor activities, it’s essential to take precautions during the midday peak to protect your skin from harmful UV rays!
| Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 08:00 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
| 09:00 | 6 | high | 25 min |
| 10:00 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
| 11:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 12:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 13:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 14:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 15:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 16:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 17:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 18:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 19:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
Throughout the year, the UV Index exhibits significant seasonal changes that impact sun safety practices for both visitors and residents. January to February sees relatively low to moderate UV levels, with burn times extending up to 45 minutes. However, as spring arrives, March through May brings higher UV exposure, reaching a peak of 9 in June, indicating very high levels of risk, where burn time is reduced to just 15 minutes. The summer months, particularly June to August, are classified as high to very high, making them the most hazardous months for sun exposure. In contrast, September through November experiences a gradual decline in UV intensity, ending the year with low levels in December. It is crucial to protect your skin, especially from April through September, by using sunscreen, wearing protective clothing, and seeking shade during peak sun hours to reduce the risk of UV-related health issues.
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 |
| Saint-Augustin | 1 | 3 | 4 | 6 | 7 | 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 |