Last updated: August 1, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors in Whitehorse, Canada, where the Dsc climate can lead to varying UV exposure levels throughout the day. Being aware of UV levels helps in preventing sunburn and protecting skin health, especially during sunnier months when the index can reach as high as 7 in peak hours. With morning readings starting at a mild 1 and climbing to a midday high of 6 and 7, it's important to stay informed to enjoy the outdoors safely while minimizing risk. As the sun's intensity varies, keep an eye on the UV Index to safeguard your skin and enjoy all that Whitehorse has to offer!
The UV Index throughout the day presents a dynamic landscape of sun exposure. Starting off softly at 07:00 and 08:00, the index registers a low 1, perfect for early risers. As the sun climbs higher, it peaks at 14:00 with a sharp 7, indicating a high risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure. The hours leading up to and following this peak, between 10:00 and 15:00, show a steady increase from 3 to 6, making it crucial for outdoor enthusiasts to take precautions. As the afternoon wanes, the index gradually dips, returning to a manageable 2 by 19:00, offering a gentler touch for evening activities. Overall, it's a day to relish the sun's warmth while remaining mindful of skin protection during the peak hours!
| 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 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 11:00 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
| 12:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 13:00 | 6 | high | 25 min |
| 14:00 | 6 | high | 25 min |
| 15:00 | 6 | high | 25 min |
| 16:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 17:00 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
| 18:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 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 | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Whitehorse | 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 |