Last updated: July 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors in Waswanipi, Canada, where the Dfc climate brings a unique set of sun exposure risks. Knowing the daily UV levels helps in preventing sunburn and maintaining optimal skin health, especially during peak hours when the index can reach as high as 8. With the sun’s intensity peaking between 12 PM and 1 PM, it’s essential to take precautions to protect yourself from harmful UV radiation, even in the cooler months. Stay informed and enjoy the beautiful outdoors while keeping your skin safe!
As the sun rises, the UV Index gradually climbs, showcasing its intensity throughout the day. At 07:00, it starts at a mild 1, but by 09:00, it picks up pace, reaching 3. The peak occurs at 12:00, hitting a solid 7. From 13:00 to 14:00, the index reaches its zenith at 8, warning us to take precautions under the midday sun. As the afternoon rolls on, the UV intensity drops steadily—dipping to 6 by 15:00, then falling further to 5 by 16:00. The evening brings more relief, with readings returning to 1 by 19:00. Be mindful of the sun’s powerful reach, especially during its peak hours!
| Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 08:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 09:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 10:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 11:00 | 6 | high | 25 min |
| 12:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 13:00 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
| 14:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 15:00 | 6 | 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 reflects significant seasonal changes, influencing sun safety for both visitors and residents. The highest risk months for UV exposure are May to July, when the index reaches its peak at 9 in June, indicating a very high exposure category and a burn time of just 15 minutes. As spring transitions into summer, attention should be heightened, particularly in April with an index of 7 (high) and a burn time of 25 minutes, as well as in August and September, when the index remains in the high range. Conversely, the winter months—January, November, and December—present a low UV risk, with indices between 1 and 2 and extended burn times of 45 minutes. Visitors and residents should take proactive measures during high UV months, such as using sunscreen, wearing protective clothing, and seeking shade, while enjoying more relaxed sun safety practices in the cooler months.
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 |
| Waswanipi | 2 | 3 | 5 | 7 | 8 | 9 | 8 | 7 | 6 | 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 |