UV Index in Canberra, Australia

Last updated: May 3, 2025

In Canberra, Australia, understanding the UV Index is crucial for protecting your skin from the sun's harmful rays. Given the city’s temperate climate, residents and visitors alike need to be aware of UV levels to prevent sunburn and promote long-term skin health. With peak UV Index values reaching 5 around midday, it's essential to take precautions, especially since Canberra's clear skies can lead to increased UV exposure. Stay informed and enjoy the outdoors safely by monitoring UV levels throughout the day!

Hourly UV Index in Canberra

As the sun rises, the UV Index starts off at a gentle 1 at 7:00 AM, providing a safe environment for morning activities. The intensity gradually increases, reaching 2 by 9:00 AM. By 10:00 AM, it climbs to 4, indicating a moderate level of UV exposure. The peak arrives at 11:00 AM and 12:00 PM, where the index hits 5, signaling a need for sun protection. The afternoon sees a decline, with readings at 4 at 1:00 PM, tapering to 3 by 2:00 PM. As the day begins to wind down, the UV Index drops steadily back to 1 by 4:00 PM, and sinks to 0 after 6:00 PM. This hourly data highlights the importance of safeguarding against UV exposure, especially during the midday 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	5	moderate	30 min
12:00	5	moderate	30 min
13:00	4	moderate	30 min
14:00	3	moderate	30 min
15:00	2	low	45 min
16:00	1	low	45 min
17:00	1	low	45 min
18:00	0	low	45 min
19:00	0	low	45 min

Monthly UV Index Trends in Canberra

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.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Canberra, Australia

The monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) represents the highest UV radiation level recorded each month in Canberra. 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 Canberra, 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 Canberra UV Index with Other Australia Cities

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

Canberra's solar exposure compared to other cities in Australia. Generated using Copernicus Atmosphere Monitoring Service information.
	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