Last updated: July 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors in Bowral, Australia, where the climate—characterized as Cfb—can present unique sun exposure challenges. With UV levels fluctuating throughout the day, awareness of these indices is key to protecting your skin from harmful effects like sunburn and long-term health issues. For instance, during peak hours, Bowral can experience a UV Index as high as 4, signifying a moderate risk and the need for sensible sun safety practices. By staying informed about the UV levels, you can enjoy Bowral’s beautiful outdoors while ensuring your skin remains healthy and safeguarded against UV radiation risks.
The UV Index throughout the day presents an interesting pattern. Starting at 07:00, the UV levels are low at 1, gradually rising to 2 by 09:00. As the sun climbs higher, 10:00 and 11:00 record a maximum of 3, signaling moderate sun exposure. The peak intensity arrives at 12:00, reaching 4, indicating a need for extra sun protection. However, as the afternoon progresses, the index starts to decline, dropping back to 3 by 13:00 and 2 by 14:00 and 15:00. By late afternoon, the UV Index decreases to 1 at 16:00 and further falls to 0 after 18:00, marking a safe return to evening hours. This data highlights the importance of sun safety practices, especially during midday when the UV Index is at its highest.
| 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 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 12:00 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
| 13:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 14:00 | 2 | low | 45 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 |
Throughout the year, the UV Index reveals significant seasonal changes that are crucial for both visitors and residents to recognize. January through March stands out as high-risk months, with the UV Index peaking at 15 during January and December, indicating an extreme exposure category and a rapid burn time of just 10 minutes. As the season transitions into April and September, the UV levels remain dangerously high, reaching 8 to 10, classified as very high. The summer months (May through July) offer a slight reprieve, with moderate levels peaking at 5 in May, but caution is still advised. To protect against harmful UV radiation, individuals should plan outdoor activities accordingly—especially during the highest-index months—and prioritize sunscreen application, protective clothing, and shade to minimize skin damage.
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 |
| Bowral | 15 | 14 | 12 | 8 | 5 | 3 | 4 | 6 | 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 |