Last updated: June 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index in Montreal is crucial for safeguarding your skin against harmful ultraviolet rays. UV exposure levels fluctuate throughout the day, with peaks often occurring during midday; this makes it vital to stay informed about the UV Index to prevent sunburn and promote long-term skin health. Given Montreal’s Cfb climate, residents and visitors alike face unique challenges when it comes to UV radiation, especially during the sunnier months. By being mindful of UV levels, you can enjoy the beautiful outdoors while minimizing the risk of skin damage.
As the day unfolds, the UV Index rises sharply, peaking at a dramatic 10 between 1:00 PM and 2:00 PM—a clear indication that sun protection is crucial during these hours. Starting from a modest 1 at 7:00 AM, the index climbs steadily, reaching 4 by 10:00 AM. By 11:00 AM, it escalates to 7, and just before noon, it hits 9, urging outdoor enthusiasts to take cover or apply sunscreen. The afternoon sees a slight decline, with values tapering to 5 by 5:00 PM and further down to 2 as the sun sets. This dynamic pattern highlights the importance of being sun-smart, especially during the peak hours of 12:00 PM to 2:00 PM.
| 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 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
| 11:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 12:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 13:00 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
| 14:00 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
| 15:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 16:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 17:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 18:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 19:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
Throughout the year, seasonal changes in UV exposure highlight significant fluctuations in the UV Index. The months of May through August are particularly high-risk, with UV Index values reaching a peak of 10, indicating very high exposure and a burn time of only 15 minutes. Visitors and residents should remain vigilant during these months, employing protective measures such as sunscreen and clothing, especially between 10 AM and 4 PM when UV exposure is strongest. March and April also show increased risk with UV Index values of 6 and 7 respectively. Conversely, January and December present lower risk levels, with UV Index values of 2 indicating low exposure and longer potential burn times of 45 minutes. It is essential to monitor UV levels year-round and adjust sun protection strategies accordingly to ensure safety.
UV Risk Categories
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Paris UVI | 2 | 3 | 5 | 6 | 8 | 9 | 8 | 8 | 6 | 4 | 2 | 1 |
| Lyon UVI | 2 | 3 | 5 | 6 | 8 | 10 | 9 | 8 | 6 | 5 | 3 | 2 |
| Nice UVI | 2 | 4 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 10 | 9 | 8 | 7 | 5 | 3 | 2 |
| Marseille UVI | 2 | 4 | 5 | 7 | 9 | 10 | 9 | 8 | 7 | 5 | 3 | 2 |
| Toulouse UVI | 2 | 4 | 6 | 7 | 9 | 10 | 10 | 9 | 7 | 5 | 3 | 2 |
| Montreal | 2 | 4 | 6 | 7 | 9 | 10 | 10 | 9 | 7 | 5 | 3 | 2 |