UV Index in Bourke, Australia

Last updated: July 2, 2025

Understanding the UV Index in Bourke, Australia is essential for maintaining healthy skin and preventing sunburn. With its BSh climate, Bourke experiences significant sunlight exposure, particularly during peak hours when UV levels can reach dangerous highs. This makes it crucial for residents and visitors alike to be aware of the daily UV forecast to take appropriate precautions. By staying informed about UV levels, you can effectively safeguard your skin and enjoy the beautiful Australian sun more safely, especially when the index climbs to levels 4 and 5 around midday.

Hourly UV Index in Bourke

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!

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	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

Monthly UV Index Trends in Bourke

The UV Index exhibits significant fluctuations throughout the year, with particularly high-risk months occurring in January, February, March, October, November, and December, where the index reaches extreme levels (15-16) and a burn time of merely 10 minutes. During April and September, the index remains very high (9) with a maximum burn time of 15 minutes, indicating a need for caution. In contrast, the months of May (UV index of 7) and August (UV index of 7) are categorized as high risk, allowing for a burn time of 25 minutes. The summer months, specifically June and July, show reduced risk levels with moderate UV exposure (4-5), resulting in longer burn times of 30 minutes. Visitors and residents should take proactive measures to safeguard against UV radiation, especially during peak months by applying sunscreen, wearing protective clothing, and seeking shade during midday hours.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Bourke, Australia

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

The table above highlights how UV exposure in Bourke 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.

Bourke'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
Perth UVI	14	14	11	9	6	4	4	6	8	11	13	14
Bourke	15	15	13	9	7	4	5	7	9	12	14	16
Brisbane UVI	15	15	13	10	7	5	5	8	9	12	14	15