UV Index in Canberra, Australia

Last updated: August 1, 2025

Understanding the UV Index is crucial for ensuring sun safety in Canberra, Australia. With its temperate oceanic climate, Canberra can experience varying UV levels throughout the day, particularly peaking around midday. Being aware of these levels helps residents and visitors protect their skin from sunburn and reduces the risk of long-term skin health issues. During summer months, even low indices can pose risks, so knowing when to seek shade or apply sunscreen is essential. Remember, protecting yourself from harmful UV rays is just as important as enjoying the beautiful outdoor lifestyle that Canberra has to offer!

Hourly UV Index in Canberra

As the sun rises, the UV Index starts off quite low. At 07:00, it registers at a mere 1, remaining constant until 09:00. A slight increase occurs by 10:00, peaking at 4 by 12:00, signaling the day's strongest sun exposure. The intensity then subsides, fluctuating between 2 and 3 from the early afternoon until 15:00, before gradually diminishing to 1 by 16:00 and finally dropping to 0 as evening sets in. It’s essential to stay mindful of these fluctuations, especially during midday when the UV rays are their most potent!

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	5	moderate	30 min
14:00	4	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