Last updated: August 1, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents of Ville-Marie, Canada, where the climate can provide ample sunshine but also pose significant risks to skin health. With UV levels peaking between 11:00 AM and 3:00 PM, reaching a high of 8, awareness of these levels is essential for sunburn prevention and long-term skin protection. In this Dfb climate zone, the distinct variation in UV exposure throughout the day emphasizes the importance of mindful sun habits. Stay informed and protect your skin by checking the UV Index regularly!
As the day unfolds, the UV Index begins its ascent, starting at a low of 1 at 7:00 AM and reaching a peak of 8 between 12:00 PM and 2:00 PM. This midday surge signals the strongest sun exposure, making it essential to take precautions if you plan to spend time outdoors. After this peak, the index gradually declines, dropping to 4 by 5:00 PM and easing back to 1 by 7:00 PM, signaling a retreat of the sun's intensity. Remember, during those high hours, keeping your skin safe is key!
| Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 08:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 09:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 10:00 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
| 11:00 | 6 | high | 25 min |
| 12:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 13:00 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
| 14:00 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
| 15:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 16:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 17:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 18:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 19:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
Throughout the year, the UV Index experiences significant fluctuations, highlighting the need for awareness among visitors and residents. January and December register the lowest levels of UV exposure (Index 2), categorized as low, allowing for longer burn times of 45 minutes. As the seasons change, February and March see a slight increase, reaching a moderate exposure category (Index 3 and 5) with 30 minutes burn time. The risk escalates sharply from April to August, with a peak in May and June at a very high level (Index 9) and a minimal burn time of just 15 minutes. July and August maintain similar intensity before gradually tapering off in September with high risk (Index 7) and 25 minutes burn time. By October to November, conditions return to moderate, signaling a gradual decrease in UV exposure. Therefore, it’s crucial for everyone to protect their skin, especially during the high-risk months of April through August, by wearing sunscreen, protective clothing, and seeking shade when the UV Index is at its highest.
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 |
| Ville-Marie | 2 | 3 | 5 | 7 | 9 | 9 | 8 | 8 | 7 | 5 | 3 | 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 |