Last updated: July 2, 2025
Awareness of the UV Index is vital for residents of Humboldt, Canada, as it serves as a crucial guide for sun safety throughout the seasons. Understanding UV levels is key in preventing sunburn and protecting skin health, especially during the peak hours when the UV Index reaches its highest values, such as 8 at noon and 1 PM. With Humboldt’s Dfb climate, characterized by warm summers and varying weather conditions, the risk of overexposure to harmful UV rays can significantly increase, making it essential for the community to stay informed and take necessary precautions. Whether you are spending time outdoors or engaging in recreational activities, being mindful of the UV Index can help you enjoy the sunshine while safeguarding your skin.
The UV Index throughout the day presents a clear and vigorous pattern of intensity. As the sun rises at 07:00, the index starts at a gentle 1, indicating minimal risk. By 08:00, it climbs to 2, still in the low range, but things escalate quickly; by 09:00, it reaches 3. The sun's power peaks astonishingly at 12:00, hitting a maximum of 8, which signifies a high risk for unprotected skin. This intense exposure persists until 14:00, before gradually tapering off through the afternoon. By 15:00, the index drops to 7, then diminishes further to 5 at 16:00, and continues to decline into the evening hours, settling back down to 1 by 19:00. Those planning outdoor activities during the midday hours should take care to protect themselves from the sun’s powerful rays!
| 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 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 12:00 | 8 | very high | 15 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 |
The UV Index varies significantly throughout the year, reflecting changes in seasonal sun exposure. January and November exhibit low UV levels (Index 2) with a burn time of 45 minutes, while February and October show moderate levels (Index 3 and 4) with a burn time of 30 minutes. The risk escalates from March (Index 5) to June and July, where it reaches very high levels (Index 8), necessitating caution with a burn time of only 15 minutes. August and September maintain high levels (Index 6 and 7), with a burn time of 25 minutes. Visitors and residents should be particularly vigilant during the high-risk months of April to August, where sunscreen, protective clothing, and limited sun exposure are crucial to prevent skin damage. Always remain aware of the daily UV Index to stay safe in the sun!
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 |
| Humboldt | 2 | 3 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 8 | 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 |