Last updated: August 1, 2025
Understanding the UV Index in Montreal is crucial for safeguarding your skin and overall health against the potential dangers of overexposure to ultraviolet rays. With a Dfb climate, the city experiences a variety of weather patterns that can lead to significant fluctuations in UV levels, particularly during sunny summer days. Knowing the UV Index helps you take precautionary measures to prevent sunburn and reduce long-term skin damage, which is essential when outdoor activities are at their peak. With UV levels peaking at a stark 9 around midday, being informed about your exposure risks in Montreal is not just advisable—it's essential. Stay proactive and ensure your fun in the sun doesn’t come with hidden costs!
The UV Index for the day showcases a notable rise in intensity as the sun climbs higher in the sky. Starting at a low of 1 at 7:00 AM, the index gradually increases to a moderate level of 3 by 9:00 AM. However, from 10:00 AM onward, things heat up significantly, peaking at a scorching 9 from noon to 2:00 PM. As the afternoon progresses, the UV Index gradually dips back to a friendly 3 by 5:00 PM, then descends further to 1 by the time evening sets in. This pattern underscores the importance of sun protection during peak hours, especially between 11:00 AM and 2:00 PM, when UV levels are at their highest.
| 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 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
| 14:00 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
| 15:00 | 6 | 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 exposure levels fluctuate significantly, peaking during the spring and summer months. The high-risk months, notably from April to August, feature very high UV indices ranging from 8 to 10, with only 15 minutes of safe exposure before risking sunburn. March also begins to elevate with a moderate index of 5. As autumn arrives, a gradual decline occurs, with September’s index at 7, followed by lowering values in October, November, and December. Visitors and residents are advised to take precautionary measures during the high-risk months, such as applying sunscreen, wearing protective clothing, and seeking shade, especially during midday hours to minimize the risk of UV-related health issues. Remember, even on cloudy days, UV rays can penetrate the atmosphere, so staying vigilant is key!
UV Risk Categories
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Montreal | 2 | 4 | 5 | 8 | 8 | 10 | 9 | 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 |