Last updated: July 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is essential for residents of Wadena, Canada, where fluctuating climatic conditions can lead to varying levels of sun exposure throughout the year. With a humid continental climate (Dfb), Wadena often experiences intense summer sunlight, making it crucial to be aware of UV levels to prevent sunburn and protect your skin health. The UV Index can peak at levels 7 to 8 during midday hours, indicating a high risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure. By keeping an eye on the UV Index, you can enjoy the beautiful outdoors while safeguarding your skin from potential damage. Stay informed and stay safe!
As the sun rises, the UV Index begins its ascent, starting at a mere 1 at 7:00 AM. By 8:00 AM, it climbs to 2, but it’s by 9:00 AM that we see a moderate rise to 3. The intensity peaks between 11:00 AM and 1:00 PM, hitting a high of 8, indicating that sun protection methods should be in full swing. As the afternoon progresses, values slightly decrease, with the UV Index dropping to 6 by 3:00 PM and then gradually retreating to 1 by 7:00 PM. This hourly data serves as a reminder to stay vigilant about sun safety during the mid-day hours when UV exposure is at its highest.
| 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 | 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 demonstrates significant seasonal variations, impacting sun exposure safety for visitors and residents. January and February start with low to moderate levels (UV Index 2 and 3), allowing for longer burn times of 45 and 30 minutes, respectively. As spring progresses into March and April, the UV Index rises to moderate and high levels (5 and 6), reducing safe sun exposure times to 30 and 25 minutes. The high-risk months commence in May and persist through August, where the UV Index reaches a peak of 8 and sunburn can occur in as little as 15 minutes. September sees a decline back to a high category (UV Index 6) with a burn time of 25 minutes, before returning to moderate conditions in October. November and December present a significant drop to low levels (UV Index 2 and 1), allowing for burn times of up to 45 minutes. Visitors and residents are advised to take precautions during the high-risk months from May to August by wearing sunscreen, protective clothing, and seeking shade to minimize the risk of skin damage.
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 |
| Wadena | 2 | 3 | 5 | 6 | 8 | 8 | 8 | 8 | 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 |