UV Index in Canada, Spain

Last updated: July 2, 2025

Understanding the UV Index is crucial for protecting your skin in both Canada and Spain. As powerful sunlight can lead to unwanted sunburns and long-term skin health issues, staying informed about UV levels helps you take necessary precautions. In Canada, where the climate can vary significantly, UV exposure peaks during sunny months and hours—highlighting the need for vigilance even on seemingly mild days. Familiarizing yourself with UV Index readings, such as the rise to 11 around midday, empowers you to enjoy the outdoors safely while safeguarding your skin.

Hourly UV Index in Canada

As the sun rises, the UV Index starts off mild, peaking at 1 by 8:00 AM. However, things heat up quickly! By 10:00 AM, it surges to 4, reaching 6 at 11:00 AM. The afternoon sun really cranks it up, hitting a maximum of 11 at 2:00 PM, making this the moment when protective measures should be a priority. As we approach late afternoon, the index begins to drop, settling at 6 by 5:00 PM and tapering off to 2 by 7:00 PM. Remember to stay sun-safe during those peak hours!

Average solar exposure data for the current time of the year. Actual values may vary and depend on many factors, such as cloud cover, vegetation cover, surface type, etc.
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	6	high	25 min
12:00	9	very high	15 min
13:00	10	very high	15 min
14:00	11	extreme	10 min
15:00	10	very high	15 min
16:00	8	very high	15 min
17:00	6	high	25 min
18:00	4	moderate	30 min
19:00	2	low	45 min

Monthly UV Index Trends in Canada

Throughout the year, the UV Index demonstrates significant seasonal changes, with the highest risk occurring in the summer months of June and July, where the index reaches an extreme level of 12 and 11 respectively, necessitating only 10 minutes of exposure before risk of burns increases. Notably, April through September marks a period of very high to extreme UV levels, with May peaking at a UV Index of 10. Visitors and residents should exercise caution, particularly from March onwards, as the risk escalates rapidly; sunscreen application, protective clothing, and avoidance of direct sunlight during midday hours are strongly advised. Conversely, the winter months of December through February present a lower risk, with moderate UV levels, allowing for more extended outdoor activities with proper protection.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Canada, Spain

The monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) represents the highest UV radiation level recorded each month in Canada. It measures the strength of ultraviolet radiation from the sun and helps assess the risk of sunburn and UV-related health issues.

Data source: Statistical UV Index data for Canada, based on information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

UV Risk Categories

Extreme (11+): Avoid the sun, stay in shade.
Very High (8-10): Limit sun exposure.
High (6-7): Use SPF 30+ and protective clothing.
Moderate (3-5): Midday shade recommended.
Low (0-2): No protection needed.

Compare Canada UV Index with Other Spain Cities

The table above highlights how UV exposure in Canada compares to other major locations across Spain. This comparison helps travelers and residents better understand regional sun intensity and plan outdoor activities with sun safety in mind.

Canada's solar exposure compared to other cities in Spain. Generated using Copernicus Atmosphere Monitoring Service information.
	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Barcelona UVI	3	4	5	7	8	10	10	9	7	6	3	2
Zaragoza UVI	3	4	6	8	9	11	11	9	8	6	3	2
Valencia UVI	3	4	6	8	9	11	10	9	8	6	4	3
Madrid UVI	3	4	6	8	10	11	11	9	8	6	4	3
Canada	3	5	6	9	10	12	11	10	9	7	4	3
Sevilla UVI	3	5	7	9	10	11	10	10	9	7	4	3