Last updated: June 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors alike in Canberra, Australia, where sunny days can quickly lead to dangerous UV exposure. With a Cfb climate characterized by warm summers and moderate winters, knowing the UV levels helps in taking proactive steps against sunburn and preserving your skin's health. From the midday sun, when the UV Index peaks at 3, to the gentler afternoon rays, being informed empowers you to enjoy outdoor activities safely while minimizing your risk of skin damage. Stay vigilant, protect your skin, and make the most of your time under the Australian sun!
The UV Index throughout the day showcases a dynamic range of sunlight intensity, starting from a maximum of 3 between 11:00 AM and 1:00 PM. Early risers will encounter minimal exposure at 07:00 with a value of 0 before it gradually rises to 1 by 08:00 and 09:00. By 10:00, the index reaches 2, indicating a moderate level of UV radiation, and peaks at 3 during the late morning to early afternoon. As the sun begins its descent, the index declines, dropping back to 2 by 14:00 before tapering off to 1 from 15:00 until 17:00, and finally returning to 0 by 18:00. Overall, this UVI data suggests a cautious approach to sun exposure during peak hours, especially from 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM, when sunscreen and protective clothing are advisable.
| Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07:00 | 0 | low | 45 min |
| 08:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 09:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 10:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 11:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 12:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 13:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 14:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 15:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 16:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 17:00 | 0 | low | 45 min |
| 18:00 | 0 | low | 45 min |
| 19:00 | 0 | low | 45 min |
The UV Index exhibits significant seasonal variation, peaking during the winter and late fall months. January and December show an extreme UV Index of 15, with a rapid burn time of just 10 minutes, followed closely by February and November, both at 13 and 12, respectively. As spring approaches, the UV Index drops to 8 in April and then stabilizes to 5 from May through August, indicating a moderate risk for sunburn, with associated burn times of 30 minutes. This increases again in September and October, reaching 8 and 10 respectively, categorized as very high. Visitors and residents should remain particularly vigilant during the high-risk months of January, February, November, and December, and take appropriate sun protection measures, such as wearing sunscreen, protective clothing, and seeking shade, especially during peak hours.
UV Risk Categories
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Melbourne UVI | 14 | 12 | 11 | 7 | 4 | 3 | 3 | 5 | 7 | 9 | 12 | 14 |
| Adelaide UVI | 14 | 13 | 12 | 8 | 5 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 7 | 10 | 12 | 15 |
| Sydney UVI | 14 | 13 | 11 | 8 | 5 | 3 | 4 | 6 | 8 | 10 | 12 | 14 |
| Canberra | 15 | 13 | 12 | 8 | 5 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 8 | 10 | 12 | 15 |
| Perth UVI | 14 | 14 | 11 | 9 | 6 | 4 | 4 | 6 | 8 | 11 | 13 | 14 |
| Brisbane UVI | 15 | 15 | 13 | 10 | 7 | 5 | 5 | 8 | 9 | 12 | 14 | 15 |