Last updated: May 3, 2025
Awareness of the UV Index is crucial for residents of Sept-Îles, Canada, where the unique Dfc climate brings varying sun exposure throughout the year. Understanding UV levels is essential not only for preventing sunburn but also for safeguarding long-term skin health. With peak UV Index values soaring to 9 during midday, the risk of overexposure is significant, especially in a coastal city where clear skies can amplify these effects. Stay informed and proactive to enjoy the sunny days while protecting your skin and well-being!
The UV Index peaks beautifully throughout the day, starting off at a modest 2 at 7:00 AM before steadily climbing. By 10:00 AM, it reaches a lively 7, and by noon, it hits its maximum of 9, indicating the sun is at its fieriest. The intensity remains high at 9 until 1:00 PM, then gradually tapers off; by 2:00 PM it dips to 7 and continues to decline until evening, settling at a gentle 1 by 6:00 PM. To fully enjoy the sun while staying safe, it's wise to protect your skin during those peak hours, especially 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 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 11:00 | 8 | 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 | 6 | high | 25 min |
| 16:00 | 4 | 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 |