Last updated: May 3, 2025
Understanding the UV Index in Vancouver, United States is essential for maintaining skin health and preventing painful sunburns. As UV levels fluctuate throughout the day, being aware of these changes can help protect you from harmful effects of sun exposure, especially during the peak hours when indices soar to 9. Nestled in a Csb climate zone, Vancouver experiences a unique blend of weather patterns that can lead to unexpected UV exposure risks, making it crucial for residents and visitors alike to stay informed about UV levels and take proactive measures against sun damage.
At 07:00, the UV Index begins at a mild 1, perfect for a leisurely morning stroll. As the sun rises higher, it gradually climbs to 2 by 08:00 and reaches 3 at 09:00. The intensity really kicks in at 10:00, jumping to 5, and soars to its peak of 9 by 13:00. This high exposure continues through 14:00, making midday the most crucial time for sun protection. As the afternoon wanes, the index dips to 7 at 15:00, then continues to decline to 5 at 16:00 and settles back to 3 by 17:00. The evening brings relief with a return to 2 by 18:00 and finally drops to 1 at 19:00. Make sure to stay protected during those peak hours!
| 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 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 14:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 15:00 | 7 | 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, UV Index levels show significant seasonal variation, indicating fluctuating sun exposure risks. January and December experience a low UV Index (2), with a burn time of 45 minutes, making them safer months for sun exposure. February to March sees a moderate increase, with indices of 3 to 5 and burn times dropping to 30 minutes, requiring some caution. April marks the transition to high risk, with an index of 6 and a burn time of only 25 minutes. The high-risk months are typically May through August, where UV levels soar to 9 or 10, necessitating protective measures such as sunscreen and clothing, as burn times plummet to 15 minutes. As summer wanes, the UV Index decreases to 7 in September and 5 in October, enabling safer outdoor activities. November continues the trend toward lower risk with a return to a moderate UV Index of 3. It is essential for visitors and residents to stay informed and adjust their sun protection strategies accordingly, particularly during the summer months when the risk of skin damage is at its highest.
UV Risk Categories
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Vancouver | 2 | 3 | 5 | 6 | 9 | 10 | 10 | 8 | 7 | 5 | 3 | 2 |
| Chicago UVI | 3 | 4 | 6 | 8 | 9 | 10 | 10 | 9 | 8 | 6 | 4 | 2 |
| Brooklyn UVI | 3 | 5 | 6 | 8 | 10 | 10 | 9 | 9 | 8 | 6 | 4 | 2 |
| New York City UVI | 3 | 5 | 6 | 8 | 10 | 10 | 9 | 9 | 8 | 6 | 4 | 2 |
| Los Angeles UVI | 4 | 6 | 8 | 9 | 10 | 11 | 11 | 10 | 10 | 7 | 5 | 4 |
| Houston UVI | 5 | 8 | 9 | 11 | 11 | 12 | 12 | 11 | 10 | 9 | 7 | 5 |