Last updated: May 3, 2025
Understanding the UV Index in Balranald, Australia is crucial for maintaining skin health and preventing sunburn, especially in this primarily semi-arid climate. With maximum UV levels peaking at 5 around midday, it's essential to be aware of exposure risks, particularly during the summer months when the sun's intensity can be more pronounced. By keeping an eye on the UV Index, residents and visitors can take proactive steps to protect themselves, ensuring a healthier outdoor experience in this vibrant, sun-soaked region.
As the sun rises, the UV Index begins at a low 1 at 7:00 AM, indicating minimal sun exposure risk. By 9:00 AM, it climbs to 2, suggesting it's time to start thinking about sun protection. The intensity peaks at 12:00 PM and 1:00 PM, reaching a high of 5, at which point it's crucial to apply sunscreen and seek shade. As the afternoon progresses, the index gently declines to 4 by 2:00 PM and further down to 2 by 3:00 PM. By 5:00 PM, the risk decreases significantly to 1, before tapering off to 0 after 6:00 PM, signaling a safe window for evening activities. Be mindful of the sun’s strength during the midday hours!
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 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
11:00 | 4 | 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 |
The UV Index exhibits significant seasonal fluctuations, with the highest values recorded from January to March and again in October to December, categorizing these months as high-risk for sun exposure. Specifically, the UV Index peaks at 15 in December, signaling an extreme exposure level with a burn time of just 10 minutes. April marks a transition with a reduction to a very high Index of 8, while May through August see moderate levels, allowing for longer safe exposure times of 30 minutes. However, September returns to a very high category. Visitors and residents are strongly advised to take precautions in high-risk months—January, February, March, October, November, and December—by seeking shade, wearing protective clothing, and using sunscreen to minimize harmful effects from UV radiation.
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 |
Balranald | 14 | 13 | 12 | 8 | 5 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 8 | 11 | 13 | 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 |