Last updated: June 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors in Watson Lake, Canada, especially given its unique climate in the Dfc zone. With varying UV levels throughout the day, being aware of these fluctuations can significantly reduce the risks of sunburn and long-term skin health issues. During peak hours, between 11:00 AM and 2:00 PM, the UV Index can reach levels as high as 6, demanding extra caution. As Watson Lake experiences its fair share of sunshine, staying informed about UV exposure can help you enjoy the outdoors safely!
The UV index for the day reveals a dynamic pattern of sun exposure. Starting gently at 07:00, with a maximum of 1, the index climbs steadily. By 10:00, it hits 3, indicating a moderate level of UV radiation. The afternoon peak occurs between 13:00 and 14:00, where the index reaches a robust 6, signaling the need for sunscreen and protective measures. As the day progresses, the intensity tapers off, dipping back to 3 by 17:00, and eventually settling at 2 as the sun begins to set. Stay sun-savvy—peak UV hours warrant extra attention to skin safety!
| Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 08:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 09:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 10:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 11:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 12:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 13:00 | 6 | high | 25 min |
| 14:00 | 6 | high | 25 min |
| 15:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 16:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 17:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 18:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 19:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
The UV Index shows a clear seasonal variation, with exposure levels peaking during the warmer months. High-risk months for UV exposure occur from May to August, with indices reaching 6 to 7 and burn times as short as 25 minutes. March and April see moderate levels of UV at indices 3 and 4, while the rest of the year, from October to February, presents low UV exposure with longer burn times of up to 45 minutes. Visitors and residents are advised to take extra precautions during the high-risk months by using sunscreen, wearing protective clothing, and seeking shade, especially during peak sunlight hours. Maintaining awareness of the UV Index can help ensure enjoyable and safe outdoor activities year-round.
UV Risk Categories
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Watson Lake | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 6 | 6 | 7 | 6 | 4 | 2 | 1 | 1 |
| 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 |
| 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 |