Last updated: August 1, 2025
In Sept-Iles, Canada, being aware of the UV Index is essential for protecting your skin and overall health. Understanding the UV levels is crucial to prevent sunburn and long-term skin damage, especially during the sunniest hours of the day. With a Dfc climate, Sept-Iles experiences varying UV exposure risks, peaking around 11 AM to 1 PM, when the UV Index can reach levels as high as 7. This awareness allows residents and visitors alike to enjoy the beautiful natural surroundings while taking the necessary precautions to stay safe under the sun.
The UV Index throughout the day exhibits a dynamic progression as the sun rises. At 07:00 AM, the index starts at a low 2, indicating minimal risk for the skin. As the hours unfold, it climbs steadily, peaking at 11:00 AM with a maximum value of 7—a clear indication for sun protection as the risk becomes high. For the next hour, it maintains this peak, ensuring the midday sun's intensity is felt. By 14:00, the index begins to decline, reflecting the sun's gradual retreat, dropping to 6 at 2 PM before eventually easing to 4 at 4 PM. The evening brings a gentle decline, with values of 2 at 5 PM, and tapering off to 1 by 6 PM and 7 PM, suggesting a peaceful end to a sunlit day. Stay informed, and don't forget your sunscreen during peak hours!
| Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 08:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 09:00 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
| 10:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 11:00 | 6 | high | 25 min |
| 12:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 13:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 14:00 | 6 | 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 experiences significant seasonal fluctuations, with the highest levels occurring in May and June, both reaching a very high index of 9. The high-risk months are primarily from April to September, where the UV exposure poses an increased risk for skin damage, particularly in April (UV Index 7) and May (UV Index 9). Residents and visitors are advised to take precautions during these months by wearing protective clothing, applying sunscreen, and seeking shade, especially when the UV Index is high or very high, where burn times can drop to as little as 15 minutes. Conversely, the winter months, particularly January and December, show a low UV Index of 1, allowing for safer outdoor activities with less risk of sunburn.
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 |
| Sept-Iles | 1 | 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 |