UV Index

Understanding the UV Index
Environment Canada’s UV Index is a useful tool when it comes to sun protection. It tells you the strength of the sun’s daily UV rays – the higher the number, the stronger the sun’s rays, the more important it is to protect yourself.

You can find out the UV Index in your area by checking your local weather forecast. If the UV Index reaches 3 or more, it’s included in the forecast. You can also go to the UV Index online for the daily forecast for your area.

The UV Index below tells you what each level means and how to protect yourself.

0–2 Low

Minimal sun protection required for normal activity.
If you’re outside for more than one hour, wear sunglasses, cover up, use sunscreen.
Reflection off snow can nearly double UV strength, so wear sunglasses and apply sunscreen on your face.

3–5 Moderate

Take precautions – cover up, wear a hat, sunglasses and sunscreen – especially if you’re outside for 30 minutes or more.
Look for shade around midday.

6–7 High

You need protection – find shade, get out the sunscreen, hats, sunglasses and cover up. Unprotected skin can be damaged and burn quickly.
Try and stay out of the sun between 11 a.m. and 4 p.m.

8–10 Very high

Extra precautions required – find shade, cover up, wear a hat, sunglasses and sunscreen. Unprotected skin will be damaged and can burn quickly.
If you can, avoid the sun between 11 a.m. and 4 p.m.

11+ Extreme

This is very rare in Canada. Maximum protection is required.
Avoid the sun between 11 a.m. and 4 p.m.
Stay in the shade, cover up, wear a hat, sunglasses and sunscreen because white sand and other bright surfaces reflect UV and increase UV exposure.
Unprotected skin will be damaged and can burn in minutes.

Source: Environment Canada 2010

Last modified on: 14 June 2011